#NeverAgain: Three things you can do TODAY to fight the gun lobby

In the days since one of the most horrific episodes of gun violence in modern history took place in Parkland, Florida, there has been a rollercoaster of emotions as we as a nation process the latest in what seems to be a never-ending cycle of gun violence.

We felt horror as we watched the news unfold. Shock as the death toll rose. Frustration as ‘thoughts and prayers’ were offered when what is actually needed is action – long overdue action.

This time, however, there’s something different in the air. The students of Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida who experienced the violence of that day – and millions of other young people around the country – are organizing. They are expressing their collective outrage in ways that cannot be ignored. They are furious, and they are demanding action.

We are inspired and awed by the brave, articulate students who are using their voices to shout from the rafters and demand change – and we must take this time to act. Here are three things you can do right now.

1. Use your digital megaphone: While NRA donations are not the only factor influencing lawmakers in their inaction, this money certainly plays a role. This Washington Post article lays out which of our elected officials is taking money from the NRA. In addition to calling your Senators and members of Congress (and yes, you should call), tell them their inaction will no longer be tolerated. A list of their Twitter handles is at the bottom of this page.

In addition, a number of companies, from banks to airlines and car rental companies have begun to cut ties with the NRA. Acknowledge them on social media. Buy their products. And call out the ones who unashamedly continue their support. The #BoycottNRAhashtag on Twitter is being continuously updated. Follow the tag and add your voice to the conversation.

2. Put your money to work: As New York Times columnist Tom Friedman rightly pointed out in his latest piece, digital activism isn’t enough. We must, as he said, get our faces out of our phones and laptops and into the NRA’s face.

These organizations are doing just that, every day, but they are woefully under-resourcedwhen compared to the NRA. Activists must put our money to work. These groups are leading the fight for universal background checks, mental health support and bans on assault weapons.

• • Sandy Hook Promise: This group was founded by family members of victims after 26 elementary school students and staff were murdered at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. They’ve done innovative work to raise awareness, develop and deliver mental health and wellness programs, and advocate for smart gun policy. Their groundbreaking video, Evan, has garnered more than 10 million views on YouTube.

• • Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America: Founded by a stay-home mother in response to the Sandy Hook shooting, this group has grown into a major force, with chapters in all 50 states. Their spinoff group, Students Demand Action launched after the Parkland shooting and is poised to become equally vocal.

• • The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence: Jim Brady, who was shot in the assassination attempt against President Ronald Reagan, died in 2014, but the organization continues. Their focus is on “finishing the job” that Jim and his wife Sarah started by championing policies that will cut gun-related deaths in half by 2025.

• • Everytown for Gun Safety: This group is a partnership between Moms Demand Action and Mayors Against Illegal Guns, and works to research gun violence and advocate for gun control.

3. Put your shoes on and get outside. A number of nationwide events are in the works:

• • March 14 – NationalSchoolWalkout: Students around the country will step outside in protest. If you have a high schooler or know one, ask how you can help. Make signs. Call local media. Chaperone. Our kids need us.

• • March 24 – March For Our Lives: In just a few days after the shooting at their high school, Parkland students have organized what is promising to be one of the most powerful protests the country has ever seen. The March For Our Lives will take place in Washington, D.C. and in towns all across the country.

• • April 20 – NationalSchoolWalkout: A second school walkout will take place on the 19^thanniversary of the Columbine shooting. This event is still in the early stages of development, but their change.org petition is live, and their Twitter account will provide real-time information.

It’s long past time for helpless platitudes and thoughts and prayers. We must take concrete action, and we must do so now.

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The following members of Congress received donations from the NRA. Here is a sample tweet you can send your elected official:

@SenJohnMcCain Your inaction on #gunreform and support of the NRA will no longer be tolerated. Move beyond your thoughts & prayers to take action and protect Americans from gun violence. #GunReformNow

Photo by Fibonacci Blue