PARKLAND, FL – Today, Stand with Parkland, the National Association of Families for Safe Schools, issued the following open letter to the American people on the eve of the 2018 midterm elections.
“It is our hope that whatever flavor of politics you choose, we all exercise our right to vote. The vote is our mechanism to help steer the direction of our country. We must respect and secure the secret ballot process so all citizens may vote their conscience freely. That is the American way.
“The past few weeks have been tough ones for our nation. We saw yet another mass shooting, this time, in a house of worship. The political climate has created great divisiveness as each party attempted to energize their base. There was talk of fear, and lots of derogatory comments against long time public servants and hopeful newcomers alike.
“It is vitally important that come Wednesday morning, when the results are in, that we all respect the results of the election. On that day we must vow to put aside the rancor and divisive nature of the campaigns and begin to come together as a nation. Those elected should be magnanimous to the other side while preparing to govern. It is easy to get those who agree with you to join your path, but real leaders are able to get others to see their vision and join them.
“The mass murder of children and teachers at school is a uniquely American problem. Both Democrats and Republicans are affected. The solution to the problem is complex. It will take a holistic approach that addresses securing the campus, better mental health screening and support programs, and responsible firearms ownership. It is time for us to come together as the American family and demand action from our elected leaders to keep our nation’s students and staff members safe at school. That idea needs to become part of the American way.”
Stand with Parkland is a national organization representing American families. We are committed to advocating for practical public safety reforms focused on the safety of our children and staff at school, improved mental health support, and responsible firearms ownership. Personal responsibility and a desire for change are paramount to this effort, and it is the people involved at all levels that will make these goals a reality. Violence in our schools affects everyone. It is an American epidemic, and it is time that we all come together to do something about it.
Stand with Parkland’s families are committed to safe schools for our nation’s students and staff members and to achieving concrete results at the federal, state, and local level. More information is available at www.standwithparkland.org.