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
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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.
Darryl Forges
A student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School receives a hug of support from a Broward Sheriff's Office deputy as the students returned to school two weeks after Florida's deadliest school shooting.
Ari Odzer
Students gather at the front of the school, holding a sign expressing support and prayers for the families and victims of the shooting. Students and teachers will be on a modified schedule for the remainder of the week, in class from 7:40 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. before returning to a full schedule on Monday.
Ari Odzer
The walkway leading onto the campus remains lined with flowers and photographs, memorials to the students and teachers killed in a Valentine's Day massacre.
Ari Odzer
Support services will be available throughout the week for students, staff and even parents who need help in dealing with the return to school and the events that surrounded the school’s closure.
Darryl Forges
Horses and animals from a farm that helps kids with special needs was in place to greet the Stoneman Douglas students on their first day back.
NBC6
Dogs and puppies are also among the support animals that were to greet the Stoneman Douglas students on their first day back.
NBC6
A crossing guard hugs a student on the first day back.
NBC6
There was a massive police presence at the school as students returned to class.
NBC6
A photographer documents the crowd in front of the school during the somber moment.
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One sign outside the school read, "We love you, MSD Strong forever."
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A police officer overlooks the scene at Stoneman Douglas by his motorcycle.
Teachers and staff spent Monday and Tuesday prepping for the return, while students and parents were on campus on Sunday for an orientation.
NBC6
NBC6
The Douglas students return to school after a whirlwind of political activism that has reignited the nation's gun and school-safety debate.
NBC6
Andy Pollack, the father of shooting victim Meadow Pollack wears a shirt honoring his daughter that reflects the popular hashtag #MeadowStrong.
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A mixture of flowers, balloons and posters pay homage to the lives lost during the shooting.
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A message stating "We stand together with Stoneman Douglas" hangs on a fence by the school.
Students leave class at Stoneman Douglas, some holding teddy bears and talking as their first day back comes to a close.
