Demand action to end gun violence
Students are at the forefront of the current tidal wave of energy to end shootings in schools and on college and university campuses, with countless people already organizing walkouts, confronting do-nothing politicians, and driving the narrative that we can do something to end the scourge of gun violence in this country.
Many students and teachers are using MoveOn Petitions to start petitions to build support for walkout events in their high school and for other organizing. Using MoveOn’s free tools, you can start your own petition to build a base of support for your efforts and help take your organizing to the next level.
Starting a petition takes just three easy steps:
1. Figure out what you want to see happen in your school or community. For example, if you’re worried that the students who want to participate in a school walkout will face suspension, perhaps you’d want to write a petition with the goal of getting your school principal to promise not to suspend students taking action for gun safety. Bottom line: You get to decide what makes sense. Make sure you keep your ask simple and clear.
2. Identify the person/people who should receive your petition by determining who has the greatest authority to make your ask a reality. It may be your principal, the school superintendent, university president, school board, or the university board of trustees. It’s OK to list multiple decision-makers as well, if you would like. The key is that you identify the person/people with the power to help you bring about a necessary change.
3. Finally, share a little bit about why this issue matters to you personally. People connect with others through stories, so sharing what this gun safety movement means to you and why taking action is so important is a great way to connect with other, like-minded people and encourage them to join you.
Once you’ve started your petition, go ahead and share it on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or even in real life (gasp!). You’ll be able to send email messages to everyone who signs your petition to organize follow-up actions and move forward this critical message in your community.
And, if you have any questions, check out our campaign tips or just email petitions@moveon.org.
So, what are you waiting for?!
Are you joining the March 14 National School Walkout?
Check out this toolkit from the Women’s March Youth Empower to learn more and register your event.