A sea of signs covered the front lawn on Wednesday as FUHS students and teachers participated in a nationwide walkout in memoriam of the 17 students and faculty members who lost their lives in the recent Parkland school shooting. Teachers, students, and parents joined together to honor and speak for the people who no longer have their voices, protesting against gun violence.

An atmosphere of unity and empowerment engulfed the campus as students chanted phrases such as “enough is enough” and “fight the NRA.” Cars passing by honked their horns in agreement and solidarity. Even former teacher Christina Garner, joined FUHS in the walkout, holding a sign that read “It’s spelled T-E-A-C-H-E-R not T-A-R-G-E-T.”

Despite some teachers’ concerns regarding the walkout, students remained peaceful while making sure their voices were heard.

Sophomore Jamie Ma gave a speech at the beginning of the walkout commemorating students for being the change the world needs.

“Events like these, when our own students rally together, are extremely important because not only are we sharing a message and voicing our belief, but spreading awareness of injustice in America that other students at our school might be unaware of,” Ma said.

Sophomore Victoria Whalen—organizer of the walkout—expressed how proud she was of FUHS and how the walkout went overall.

“I was ecstatic; I was so happy it went better than it was planned,” said Whalen. “I expected 10 at most, but the whole school going made me feel so proud.”

Whalen hopes FUHS continues to use its voices in the fight against gun violence.

“We need students to continue to use their voice and that energy to help make our community safer,” said Whalen. “The most patriotic thing someone can do is protest.”

Senior Rebecca Tell also felt that her experience during the walkout was one of unity.

“I thought it was one of the most powerful things I have ever done,” said Tell. “I have been to the Women’s Marches and to many protests, but, to me, these were my peers and people I have known for most of my life. Seeing the people you have grown up with advocate the same things as you is really powerful.”