The world feels heavy right now. In just one day, headlines have been filled with stories of violence, students harmed in school shootings, and lives cut short in moments that never should have happened. For most, reading these stories brings a mix of sadness, worry, and even fear. It’s a reminder of how fragile life can be, and how important it is to see one another not just as names in the news, but as people.
I want to bring attention to the issue of gun violence and the importance of respecting every individual’s right to live and speak freely. Regardless of political beliefs, Charlie Kirk was also a husband and a father, and his life should never have been taken from his family. His role in politics does not change the fact that he was a person whose life mattered.
Gun violence, in all its forms, continues to affect communities everywhere. Earlier today at Evergreen High School was another painful reminder that students, teenagers, with futures ahead of them should never have to face such danger in a place meant for learning and safety.
Even with everything that’s happened, there’s still proof that people can come together and push through hard times. When tragedies strike, you see classmates checking in on each other, communities supporting families, and conversations starting about how to make things better. In the face of loss, we’re reminded that every life matters.