On Saturday May 9th, Riverwood students and teachers had the privilege of hearing the inspiring words of Representative Lucy Mcbath (D-GA) on a Zoom call. The call was organized by Riverwood’s Students Demand Action club, started by 11th graders Tess Berman and Sydney Fox. Students Demand Action is a part of Everytown for Gun Safety. Led completely by students, Students Demand Action functions to host events, educate the community, and communicate with legislators to promote gun safety. Tess and Sydney were motivated to start the club following the horrific shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. When the government ceased to take action following the tragedy, the girls realized it was their job to enact change.
Elected in 2018, Congresswoman Mcbath is the Representative from Georgia’s 6th district. As a victim of gun violence, she works with Everytown and Students Demand Action to tackle America’s daunting gun issue. In the Zoom call, the Congresswoman shared the story of her son, Jordan Davis, who was shot and killed while unarmed in 2012. The Representative proceeded to empower the students by encouraging them to believe that they have the power to enact change, just as she has. She stressed the importance of young voices in promoting progress.