The rain was not going to stop the middle school of Corpus Christi from raising their voices and the community’s awareness in a walk out demonstration against gun violence at 10am on Wednesday. This participation in a National School Walkout gave students a taste of how their actions can be an inspiration. Even if the 90 student walk out onto Park Blvd. doesn’t motivate Congress to legislative action, it inspired our very own school and the surrounding community. One student counted over 60 honks of support from passing cars including one very enthusiastic AC Transit bus driver! Several neighbors came out and stood with us.
Our students had the option to walk out or to stay in class. Those that stayed in were able to watch the live stream of CNN with Ms. Murphy as a way to understand what today’s demonstration was about. They then brought the victims to prayer with a reading of the Beatitudes. Even our littlest citizens participated. First grade had a very solemn 17 seconds of silence to honor all those who are sad. Sixth grade was given 17 minutes to do a free write on the subject of peace. There were some thoughtful reflections, poems and heartfelt sharing.
It was very encouraging to see the students taking time to honor fallen peers, stand together in peaceful protest and demonstrate the willingness of this generation to face the difficult issues with sincerity. It reminded Ms. Murphy of the sixties! We are lucky to face a future with these mindful and courageous young people.