The tragic events in Parkland, Florida on February 14, 2018 reignited a fierce and controversial debate over gun-related legislation. People all over the country took to social media, attended town meetings, and went to their senators and representatives to argue for or against tighter gun laws and policies.

One of the most remarkable groups to raise their voice in the days following the Parkland tragedy is the students who lived it. The students of Stoneman Douglas High School have been making public appearances at gun-control rallies, CNN events, and more. One event in particular stands out for its national support and attention: the national school walkout.

There is no set date for the school walkout. The students of Stoneman Douglas have expressed intent to participate on March 17, but Drury University and neighboring Central High School will also participate on March 23 between 10:00 and 11:00 AM. The walkout is a unique chance for students to participate in something that may seem a bit scary: political activism.

The words “political activism” often evoke images of sign-wielding protestors or lines of people blocking busy highways. My own experience with political activism came with my trip to Washington DC during the “Democracy Spring” protests. In awe, I witnessed a crowd of people march up the steps of the Capitol Building, chanting their grievances with the electoral college and bribery by Wall Street. Political activism has long been a staple of American political culture; if we don’t like something, we say so. For much of American history, activism has been dominated in large part by a particular group – or more specifically, age. For the most part, the most politically active people have been adults.

This is quickly changing.

Today, more than ever, young people are making their voices heard. The students of Stoneman Douglas High School have inspired thousands of young people across the country to raise their voices against gun violence. This is not an opinion piece for or against harsher gun control, but rather a highlight of the amazing opportunity high school and college age people have to make their voices heard. It is also an argument as to why you should participate and raise your voice for what you believe.

The United States was founded on principles of democracy. We all know this. “We the People” is an important part of our national identity. Political activism is how the People vocalize their (dis)satisfaction with government institutions. Our power to vocalize opinions is so important, we included its protection in the very first amendment of the Bill of Rights. Being politically active gives you a voice, and having a voice keeps you in power.

You don’t have to attend every single protest or event to be politically active. A simple email, letter, or call to your local representatives keeps your voice in policy-making. Volunteering for campaigns, political parties, or election-related events can advance policies and officials whose ideals and values you support. Protests, marches, and walkouts – while exciting and dramatic – are not the only option for young people wanting to be heard.

We live in a point of history where we are being listened to. Real change is coming out of young people like you and me refusing to be ignored, refusing to be silenced. On March 23, you have the opportunity to add your voice to the national chorus demanding change.

We are the future. Speak with such volume and conviction that you become impossible to ignore.

Editorial submitted by Forest Swisher