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Lake Stevens students continue momentum to end gun violence

Lake Stevens High School students vow to continue the campaign to end gun violence started by students in Parkland, Florida.

Around a Snohomish County kitchen counter Tuesday, it was a summer school of sorts with students as teachers and the homework being done.

"We want to keep this topic relevant," said Cynthia Hunyh.

"The violence doesn't stop just because school is out," added Cora Hannigan.

The Lake Steven High School students made signs and prepared for a weekend rally in Seattle.

The goal is to continue the campaign to end gun violence started by students in Parkland, Florida after a gunman killed 17 classmates in February.

"We don't know what school is next. We don't know if there is going to be another school shooting," said Owen Rody.

"A lot of people don't take us seriously or don't think our voices matter," added Hannigan.

While school shootings are the focus of the rally, there are so many more gun deaths that never make the news.

Last year, a friend of the Lake Stevens students killed himself with a gun. He was just 15-years-old.

"I want to keep my friends safe. I don't want to have to go through another situation where I have to grieve for a friend," said Hannigan.

Just this past weekend, 66 people were shot, 12 of then fatally in Chicago. Among the dead were an 11-year-old and a 13-year-old.

"That's our new, harsh reality in America and we want to change that," said Rody.

Politicians have been largely impotent in stopping the carnage, say students. That's why they are refusing to let people forget about what's at stake.

"There are kids who actually want to go out and make a change in the world," said student Danielle Osborn. "People should listen to them."

"It is your voice and it is your country," added Rody. "We should all work together to the fix the problems that affect all of us."

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