Twenty-five students from MPS traveled by bus to Washington, DC on Saturday to lend their voices to those of over 200,000 young people who marched on the capitol in support of stricter gun control and an end to school violence. The students, chaperoned by
Mr. Matthew Ochalek and
Mr. Michael Miller of the theology department and
Mrs. Pam Magerle, bookstore manager and parent of MPS graduates, made the almost six hour drive to rendezvous with representatives of the Sisters of Mercy and students from other Mercy schools from across the nation.
The trip was organized by senior
Hannah Moffatt, who created a GoFundMe, which raised over $1100 to help pay for transportation costs and fulfilled her desire that no student passionate about these issues should be unable to participate due to financial constraints. They also raised money by selling “Enough” sweatshirts.
Hannah said, “Attending the march was the most empowering and inspiring thing I've ever experienced. I think my classmates would agree with me when I say that when we were out there with that crowd of people, we really felt like we were making a difference.
"My wish is that the march will help to spark more conversation on common sense gun laws not only for our local representatives, but also for our fellow MPS students. We have to remember that this march is just the beginning of the revolution and that we must continue to push for nonviolence. We must educate ourselves and take action so we can save lives.”
L to r: Seniors Rebecca Swanson, Hannah Moffatt, Tyler Kloss and Lexi Lytle showing support at the National March
MPS senior and student government president,
Tyler Kloss expressed his views on attending the march, which was his first trip to D.C. “I have never had so many chills at a single event. It was surreal to know that this march that attracted a record-breaking crowd was all organized by high school students. At the march, many adults came up to some MPS students and thanked us for coming to voice our opinions. It was humbling to know that despite being put down by other adults in the country for asking politicians to prioritize our safety that many adults still supported us.
“A few of the other MPS students and I had the opportunity to register to vote, and I know for a fact that those MPS students who can legally vote come election season will be voting, including myself. We will make the change, which is necessary, happen.
"Without the help and support from MPS administration, faculty, and senior
Hannah Moffatt, who planned this trip, and my friends and family, my positive experience would have never happened.”
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O Lord,
With the race here in less than a month, now is your chance to get your name on the back of the coveted Laker Glow t-shirts. It’s a great way to advertise your business or show your family’s support of physical fitness and of MPS. This annual race draws around 500 participants of all ages and from all walks of life. The colorful shirts are spotted around our community all year long. The deadline to be listed on the shirt is Friday, April 13th.
