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Obamas Say They're Inspired by Parkland Students' ‘Resilience, Resolve and Solidarity': Report

Barack Obama advocated for what he often called "common-sense gun safety measures" as president

Former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama told the students of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in a letter this month that their "resilience, resolve and solidarity" inspired them, according to a report.

Digital publication Mic obtained a copy of the letter, dated March 10, in which the Obamas offer their support for the students' activism on gun violence in the wake of the Feb. 14 massacre at their school in Parkland, Florida.

"We wanted to let you know how inspired we have been by the resilience, resolve and solidarity that you have all shown in the wake of unspeakable tragedy," the Obamas said. "Not only have you supported and comforted each other, but you’ve helped awaken the conscience of the nation, and challenged decision-makers to make the safety of our children the country’s top priority."

Barack Obama advocated for what he often called "common-sense gun safety measures" as president, who teared up in 2016 as he decried congressional inaction after the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

"All of us need to demand a Congress brave enough to stand up to gun lobbies' lies. All of us need to stand up and protect our citizens," he said at the time.

The Stoneman Douglas shooting, in which 17 people died, has re-invigorated that movement, in part due to the advocacy of students from the school. They organized marches to be held across the country this weekend to push for reform.

The Obamas' office declined to comment on the letter.

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