Columbian students stage walkout in coordination with National Walkout

Students at Tiffin Columbian High School participated in a walkout on Wednesday, allowing students to gather on the football field for 17 minutes, honoring the 17 lives lost in Parkland, Florida, at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. The day coordinates with the National Walkout and marks one month since the Parkland shooting.

The event was organized by students Lauren Buskirk, junior; Kirsten Egbert, sophomore; and Kate Burkes, senior. During the walkout, students read the names of the victims and their biographies, according to the walkout’s official Facebook page.

Rachel Crooks, the Democratic candidate for State Representative in 2018 against incumbent Rep. Bill Reineke (R), expressed her support for the students today. “I’m proud that various schools in the 88th House District participated in today’s National Walkout Day. Students becoming politically active and taking matters into their own hands regarding gun violence and safety in our schools is incredibly inspiring,” Crooks said.

“I hope that our current politicians listen to these young voices and remember the importance of their constituents rather than lobbyists and special interests. 17 lives were lost in FL, and we demand it happen #NeverAgain,” she added.