A week after thousands of people marched to push for an end to gun violence, a community gathers for their own event. The issue hits close to home in Mukilteo, where three teenagers were shot and killed at a party in 2016.
The rally was called “Never Again: Mukilteo” and was organized by teens. They took center stage at the event, which included poems and music.
“Kids are more invested in this issue now because of what we've experienced as a school with lockdowns, with friends we've lost," said Ketta Davis.
Several took the stage to talk about how gun violence impacted their lives and the changes they want to see. Paul Kramer, the father of Will Kramer who was shot at that party in 2016, spoke to the group about his frustrations and hope.
“When there's another shooting, the wounds get reactivated, retraumatized so to speak. It's sad that this continues,” he said.
Kramer said the teens’ energy and enthusiasm for change give him hope they can reduce the likelihood that other families and communities will face the same tragedy.
“It's sad that we haven't been able to do it, that's the job of the adults to make the changes when they need to take place, and we haven't gotten it done," said Kramer.
The teens encouraged voter registration and said it's time to get rid of politicians who don't support their agenda. State Senator Marco Liias says he believes they will take on some of the issues in their next session.
"The issue of assault weapons should they be legal at all? And if they are, what are the background checks and age restrictions? What about high capacity magazines? What about a waiting period?" he said.
Students put painted hands on a bench they’re working on as a memorial to Jake, Anna, and Jordan, who died in the shooting. They hope a more lasting memorial will be a change in the law that prevents families from dealing with this in the future.
