December 9, 2021
Talking about school shootings has never been enough. Action is needed to make change, but now not only has action halted, conversations have as well.
As the student news publication of a high school in America, we feel that it is important to help start the conversation surrounding one of the darker sides of the return to in-person classes.
We have tried our best to focus on the positive aspects, however, in light of recent events, we felt it necessary to address a certain sense of vulnerability that has arisen from coming back into the building.
We are all familiar with the protocol of what to do if tragedy hits. Lock-ins, lock-downs, these drills feel real, they induce stress for students. However, nothing can equate to what happened in the community of Oxford, MI on Nov. 30.
Four students at Oxford High School died in yet another school shooting, with one of the victims being as young as 14.
While the community mourns the deaths of these teens, this should be a reminder of the violence that this country endures every day. It seems, however, that there is a disturbing lack of discussion about this topic.
After 29 school shootings this year, the community has slowly become desensitized, but we cannot forget the scope and gravity of the situation. One shooting is unacceptable, but 29 shootings are incomprehensible.
If we as a high school are trying to return to what is considered a normal year, and this is part of it, then we need a new normal.
While we aren’t trying to say that there is one correct way to deal with a tragedy like this, whether on a national or personal level, there’s no harm in doing at least something. Yes, walkouts are a start, yes, they do raise awareness, but they are not an immediate solution. We can’t command any number of you to do one thing, but we can point out options, such as writing to your representatives, donating to the families of the victims of any tragedy like these and just overall being respectful of those who choose a different way to help than you.
There are valid arguments to be made about not celebritizing the victims or the offender in fear of glorifying the topic, but we as a community cannot become complacent and accept this as a part of a return to normalcy.
Whatever the solution may be, don’t let yourself be unphased by causes that need you. Recognition and conversation is the first step toward change.
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