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MU Takes Part in National Day of Action to Prevent Gun Violence in Schools

Millersville University (MU) will participate in the National Day of Action to Prevent Gun Violence in Schools on April 20. Coordinated events will occur between 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

In solidarity with students and activists, Millersville University (MU) will participate in the National Day of Action to Prevent Gun Violence in Schools on April 20. Coordinated events will occur between 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

This day of activism was inspired by the students in Parkland, Florida who rose up against gun violence in the wake of the deadly shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on Feb. 14. Students across the country will participate in protests on April 20, the 19th anniversary of the Columbine High School Massacre.

At MU, students and activists will congregate in front of the Francine G. McNairy Library and Learning Forum to protest as part of The National School Walkout.

Francine G. McNairy Library and Learning Forum
Francine G. McNairy Library and Learning Forum

Several speakers will discuss the need for legislation to prevent gun violence in schools. Speakers include Jess King, who is running for U.S. Congress in Pennsylvania’s 11th District; Auditor General Eugene DePasquale and Lancaster’s Interfaith Coalition, who will lead a prayer at 11:19 a.m., the time of the Columbine shooting. Students, faculty, legislators, clergy and community members who share the same concerns and hopes for safety are encouraged to attend.

The event is being organized and sponsored by MU’s Center for Civic and Community Engagement along with other student and faculty groups including The Alliance for Social Change, the Frederick Douglass Black Culture Celebration, the English Department, the Honors College Student Association, The President’s Commission on Gender and Sexual Diversity, the School of Social Work and many others.

“We hope to draw attention to the need to get common sense legislation passed to protect our schools, and to reinforce this need through civic action,” says Dr. Jill Craven, chair of the English department.

Earlier in the week, Dr. Karen Rice, chair of the social work department, will screen the documentary, “Under the Gun,” in the Clair Performing Hall in the Winter Center from 6-9 p.m. on April 18. A panel discussion will follow the film.

There will be open parking on campus on April 20. No passes are required.

For more information on the National Day of Action, click here.

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