Grace Fischer endured the tragedy of the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre and has since watched numerous similar incidents unfold. Now 18, she is preparing to vote in her first presidential election, fueled by the belief that change is possible. Fischer’s experience as a survivor of one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history has ignited a fire within her and her peers to advocate for gun control measures and safety in schools.
Fischer, along with other survivors, met Vice President Kamala Harris, who has prioritized gun violence prevention, proposing bans on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. In contrast, Republican figures like Donald Trump and JD Vance have faced criticism for their views on school shootings. The survivors are determined to use their voices and votes to honor their lost classmates and educators, campaigning for a future where such tragedies do not repeat.
The efforts of these survivors and organizations like Giffords signal a growing momentum towards gun safety laws and a collective desire to prevent school shootings from becoming a norm. As Fischer and her peers approach this pivotal election, they carry the weight of remembrance and hope for a safer future in their hearts.
“I’m casting a vote for the 26 who can’t,” Wasilnak said.