The SLO County Democratic Party sent a letter to school administrators and trustees encouraging them to support the national student walkout events on March 14th. A copy of the letter is below, if your organization would like to sign on please email rosemary@slocdp.org
March 11, 2018
Dear School Administrators and Trustees;
High School Students nationwide are raising their voices. They are demanding something so basic – to attend school without fear of injury or death – be assured by the adults in this country. These young people have chosen to engage in our democratic process by exercising their freedom of speech and by taking meaningful action to ensure they and their peers can learn in an environment free from the threat of firearms.
Educators are on the front lines with our children. Your passion and commitment to their education and safety are reflected in our students. You stand up for them, and they are now standing up not only for themselves, but for you as well.
It is imperative that these students see adults support them in the National School Walkout on March 14. This event is an opportunity for young people nationwide to effect actual change. If we hope to engage them in the democratic process, this is the time. By empowering these students as they protest the real danger students face today, we show them that they are valued – that their voices matter.
The San Luis Obispo County Democratic Party, along with the clubs and organizations signed below stand with the students and ask that you join in this support by allowing these young people to express their concerns and to demonstrate in this Walkout. We ask that you not subject students who choose to participate to disciplinary action, and that you communicate that prior to 10am on March 14. By respecting their rights to participate in democracy during this important time in history, you are supporting and empowering the young leaders of tomorrow.
We request your support of this movement. Organizers are calling for a 17-minute walkout which does not involve leaving campus. It will not impact the daily attendance count. Admissions officers at Brandeis and MIT are on record supporting our young people in their expression of free speech. We hope you will join them.
Please contact Rosemary Wrenn at 805-709-8674 for more information.
Thank You,
Rosemary Wrenn, Chair
San Luis Obispo County Democratic Party
Nick Andre & Tarrah Graves, Co-Chairs
SLO County Progressives
Barry Price
Bend the Arc SLO
Barbara Wisehart
Paso Robles Democratic Club
Together We Will, SLO