You might not be a big fan of politics, but you can still participate. All you need to do is vote for people you believe will work on these issues, and if they don't work the way they should, then it is your responsibility to call them, organize a town hall, and demand that they show up - hold them accountable.
Interpretation
Engagement in politics is essential, even if you're not a fan, and accountability is key.
This quote emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and the responsibility individuals have to participate in the political process, voice their concerns, and hold elected officials accountable for their actions. Emma Gonzalez advocates for active involvement, suggesting that simply voting is not enough; citizens must also take an active role in advocating for change and ensuring that those in power fulfill their commitments.
In practice
During a community meeting discussing local issues, you can quote this to inspire others to get involved.
What matters is that the majority of American people have become complacent in a senseless injustice that occurs all around them. What matters is that most American politicians have become more easily swayed by money than by the people who voted them into office.
Mental illness and gun violence are not directly correlated, but when the two go hand in hand, Americans - often children - lose their lives.
If I'm able to communicate one thing to adults, it would be this: it should not be easier to purchase a gun than it is to obtain a driver's license, and military-grade weapons should not be accessible in civilian settings.
In a little over six minutes, 17 of our friends were taken from us. Fifteen were injured. And everyone - absolutely everyone - in the Douglas Community was forever altered.
Get out and vote. If you can't vote, then register other people to vote. Get people to the polls; make sure that people who need to vote can vote.
If you want to help arm the schools, arm them with school supplies, books, therapists - things they actually need and can make use of.
Action cures fear. Indecision, postponement, on the other hand, fertilize fear.
Even though I'm not running anymore, we still have to try to find a cure for cancer. Other people should go ahead and try to do their own thing now.
Men, I am not ordering you to attack. I am ordering you to die. In the time that it takes us to die, other forces and commanders can come and take our place.
I know in war good people can feel obliged for good reasons to do things they would normally object to and recoil from.
Hate is too great a burden to bear.
One thing I just want to say to the military families - while you might not wear a uniform, I know - we all know, the nation knows - that you serve and sacrifice right alongside of your loved ones. And we are so grateful and proud of all of you for your service to this nation.
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