Five years ago yesterday, we watched in horror as the news came from Parkland, Florida: seventeen people, students and staff alike, slaughtered at the hands of a violent gunman. In the five years since, we’ve seen massive calls to action. Young people nationwide organizing against gun violence, demanding more from those in power. Parents, educators, and activists on Capitol Hill pleading with lawmakers: Do something. Protect our children. In the five years since, we’ve seen thousands more lose their lives to the uniquely American scourge that is gun violence. Just this week, horror struck Michigan State University – three families shattered forever. And in the face of such bloodshed, such loss, there stands the NRA – unblinking, armed with passive “thoughts and prayers” and an unwavering commitment to maintaining the status quo. Let me be clear, friend – the status quo is not an option. As long as I’m in Congress, I will fight as hard as I can to reduce the epidemic of gun violence in our country. We know that Americans broadly support increased gun control measures; our children and future generations are relying on us to find solutions. It is unconscionable that the gun lobby and its Republican enablers continue to leave children and families in harm’s way – and I’ll fight like hell to stop them. If you agree with me that it’s past time for commonsense measures to prevent gun violence, add your name here. We cannot continue to live and die this way. I thank you for standing with me and so many others. – Madeleine