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A protest against gun violence
- Poudre Press Staff
- Oct 1
- 3 min read
The walk out
September 17, 2025
What you need to know
On September 17, 2025, a statewide walkout among schools was performed to protest against gun violence. Students across Colorado took part in the protest, walking out of their classrooms and going outside to show resilience and demand change in policies and protections for kids just like them. These walkouts were organized to call for stronger and more secure gun safety measures and to stand against what they have witnessed their neighboring schools endure. Students wanted to show that they should be able to feel safe in schools that claim to be sanctuaries — places where they can confidently learn and socialize without living in constant fear for their own or others’ safety. The estimated number of students who participated in the student-led protest was in the hundreds. The largest and most notable gathering was in Denver, Colorado, where several hundred students rallied together and marched around the Colorado State Capitol. Many held signs or shouted chants to draw attention to the cause they were fighting for.
The why
These protests were sparked by a tragic event that happened just a week earlier at Evergreen High School, where a shooting left two students injured. The suspect later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The effects of this tragedy hit Colorado hard, leaving many shaken and heartbroken. News of the horrific event spread quickly and left many students feeling that more must be done to prevent something like this from happening ever again. By joining together, students hoped to send a message to anyone who could listen — leaders, adults, students, and anyone who could see the wrongs being made throughout the country. They wanted to show that protecting children in schools should always be a top priority. The walkouts also expressed support for the Evergreen High School community, which was most affected by the tragedy, letting them know they are not facing this pain alone. Through the actions of these brave students, it was proven that their voices matter, and that even the quietest voices can spark the loudest changes.
The effect
The shooting at Evergreen High School left a powerful impact on the community and the state as a whole. The students who were injured brought pain and fear to their families, teachers, and, most of all, their classmates. Many people felt frightened, wondering what or who might be next. They were enraged at the restrictions and actions that could have been taken beforehand to prevent this and many other tragedies. People were shaken, realizing how quickly violence could erupt in a place that was supposed to be a safe haven for children, teachers, and staff. Parents became even more worried and scared to send their children to school—a place meant for learning. Students struggled with their feelings of sadness, anger, and anxiety that this event provoked. The tragedy served as a heavy reminder to everyone that school shootings have yet to see major changes to prevent them, and without the voices of those affected — whether community members, students, teachers, or workers — there will continue to be no change.
The student-led protest that followed also had a strong impact, but in a different and more positive way. By walking out of their classrooms, students showed they were not willing to stay silent about their safety and the safety of others. Their actions sparked conversations among teachers, parents, leaders, and lawmakers about how to prevent future tragedies. The protest empowered students who often feel silenced in these matters and gave them a chance to have a voice. Communities across Colorado were brought together to see and witness the effects these events cause across the board, affecting everyone around them—not just students and families. They witnessed students standing together and demanding change. This brought hope and unity during a time of pain.
Together, the shooting and the protest showed two sides of the same story: the cause and effect of what has been done and what still needs to be done. One story is of fear, loss, and injustice; the other is one where change is fought for louder and stronger. This new story is filled with strength, determination, and the will to fight for what is right, regardless of who you are or were. No matter who you are, or where you come from, your voice matters. You should never feel ashamed to stand up for your safety and the safety of others. Your voice matters.
Citations
"Students at multiple Colorado schools stage walkouts to protest gun violence"
PHS PRESS
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