DES MOINES, Iowa — While legislators began a new session Monday at the Iowa State Capitol, there were also protests taking place just outside the respective chambers.
Students from across the state walked out of school and descended on the statehouse, protesting against gun violence and demanding action.
The rally came just four days after one student was killed and several others were injured in a shooting at Perry High School.
“Gun violence has become normalized in our country. Students living in fear has become normalized,” said Akshara Eswar, a Johnston High School student and director for March for Our Lives Iowa.
Several students from East High School were in attendance at the rally, sharing how gun violence has impacted their lives. In 2022, a shooting outside the school killed one student dead and two others critically injured.
East High senior Christopher Ramirez Chavez told Local 5 that he'll never forget when the sound of shots range out just outside his English classroom window.
“It was just confusion and chaos about what had happened," Ramirez Chaves said. "Since then, I would like to say I’ve been an advocate for common sense gun legislation."
In a letter sent to Gov. Kim Reynolds, March For Our Lives Iowa called on lawmakers to pass new gun laws this legislative session.
“Iowans have had enough of prayers. We need action," said Hannah Hayes, state director for March For Our Lives Iowa. "You, Governor Reynolds have the power to create meaningful change, you have the power to save more lives from being senselessly stolen in this state.”
Democratic lawmakers also joined the students in their rallying efforts, speaking to the crowd about the impacts of gun violence in Iowa.
“Ending gun violence should not be a partisan issue. Keeping our children safe in schools should not be a partisan issue," said Sen. Pam Jochum, D-Dubuque.
Rep. Ako Abdul-Samad, D-Des Moines agreed to work for change this session and encouraged students to continue their advocacy.
"You gotta say to your parents, 'What are we gonna do to stop the violence?'" Abdul-Samad told the crowd. "'What are we gonna do together to make this work for us?'"
Students who spoke to Local 5 hope that Gov. Reynolds will address their demands in her 2024 Condition of the State address on Tuesday evening.