I was contacted by Sergio Rozenblat a few months ago about becoming involved with his PAC, Families vs Assault Rifles. Sergio is a friend of mine. I was his daughter’s teacher two years ago, and my son plays hockey with his. He approached me because I’m not only a mom, but I’m a teacher at MSD. I was honored and flattered that he thought of me, and I jumped at the opportunity.
I was invited to film a PSA about gun safety that would be shown to teacher unions around the country, as well as other organizations. When I arrived, I was greeted by my friend and coworker, AP Government teacher Jeff Foster. I was also greeted by Fred Guttenberg (Jaime’s father) and Manuel Oliver (Joaquin’s father). We each did a 45-minute interview that would be turned into a one-minute video. I told both Fred & Manuel that I’m their biggest fans, and I’ll work for the rest of my life to honor their children and fight for gun safety and common sense gun reform. Their organizations came out of their own grief, and have fueled a movement, not just in Parkland, Broward County and Florida. Fred’s organization is Orange Ribbons for Jaime, and Manuel’s organization is Change the Ref.
I spoke openly and candidly. I shared my story. I spoke as a mom. I spoke as a teacher. I spoke as an American citizen.
It felt good to talk about it. I know that there are people who just can’t or choose not to. I know that continuing to talk about my experiences on 2/14 is a part of my healing process. I feel better when I do. I know that I’m educating people. I know that I’m honoring the seventeen we lost that day. I know I’m making my family proud by using my voice.
For more information about the organizations mentioned, visit: