Four Years Later: Reflecting on the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Tragedy

Gun violence and school shootings are a uniquely American epidemic. These all too frequent atrocities have induced a culture of fear in our society. A culture that taught a generation of children to hide under desks during active shooter drills. A culture where no public place feels safe anymore. According to the Sandy Hook Promise Organization, the U.S. has had 1,316 school shootings since 1970 and these numbers are still increasing. This is not normal. 

Valentine’s Day marks four years since 17 people were killed and another 17 were wounded when a gunman opened fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. While people nationwide are celebrating a day of love and happiness, for many, Valentine’s Day is also a day of remembrance. Valentine’s Day is the day we remember the beautiful and innocent lives that were lost in 2018. 

The Marjory Stoneman Douglas (MSD) school shooting shocked everyone, especially high school students across the country. Since then, some actions have been taken by the U.S. government and independent organizations, such as March For Our Lives, to maximize gun control and protect students.

As a South Florida native, I vividly remember Valentine’s Day in 2018. My high school was located about 20 minutes away from MSD High School. It was unnerving watching people’s Snapchat stories, starting off full of love and happiness…the last few snaps showing smeared eyeliner and frantic “IS EVERYONE OK?” snaps. This day will forever be engraved into my mind and Valentine’s Day will never be the same. 

Tragedy falls, and takes what cannot be replaced: time, moments, milestones, togetherness. Darkest clouds of trouble, a peace destroyed. Suddenly, senselessly, publicly. We stand united to illuminate a journey filled with support and admiration. Deeply etched, we always remember. 

Kiss and hug your friends and family not just today, but everyday, for you never know when it might be the last time. Show them how much you care and appreciate them. Say “I love you” every time you get the chance. Spread love, kindness, and happiness today and always. Live, love, dance, smile, and raise your voice for all those who no longer can. Remember their names and share their stories. Forever in our hearts: Jaime Guttenberg, Alyssa Alhadeff, Scott Beigel, Martin Duque Anguiano, Nicholas Dworet, Aaron Feis, Chris Hixon, Luke Hoyer, Cara Loughran, Gina Montalto, Joaquin Oliver, Alaina Petty, Meadow Pollack, Helena Ramsay, Alex Schachter, Carmen Schentrup and Peter Wang. 

MSD STRONG.