#socialmovements

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John (left) and Sean (right), two students of Florida State University, hold up homemade signs protesting gun violence. On the left, the sign adopts a diagnostic frame, acknowledging that the AR-15 was the designated weapon used for mass murders. The sign on the right is calling out the enablers who are responsible for knocking down legislation to reduce gun violence.

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Sign: “Let’s rename ‘school’ to ‘uterus’ so maybe Republican lawmakers will want to do something about the children dying inside of them. @nw313″

This photo captures a connection between two movements - when women’s rights meet gun control. This sign is attention-grabbing, and one might say it brings a dark sense of humor to a serious, emotional topic. This tactic can create tension between the pro-life and pro-gun movement, which are both generally conservative movements. However, those affiliated with the pro-choice movement may find this sign problematic, as the pro-choice movement does not define a fetus as a child or abortion as death.

- Ruth, Ciara, Elizabeth, and Majo

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Students assembled around the Westcott Building at FSU and marched to the Capitol Building in Tallahassee, FL with emotionally-driven signs of statements of collective action. Many of the petition signs were extremely fear-driven. Others took the approach of developing emotional empathy for victims and their families.

- Jada, Lindsay, Derricka, and Samantha

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Seeing this sign, we had a first few reactions. First, it makes the observer think, this boy shouldn’t have to protest for his right to a safe education, he’s so young. He has used bullet hole imagery through the sign, making it more impactful and reminding the viewer about violence. This image makes us wonder: is this young person’s motive to protest his own? Is he with a parent or guardian who has encouraged him to protest? Is it his own initiative to protest? One tactic movements like to take is that they are taking action “for the children” or “for our future.” How is this different when children are not only the focus, but the leadership for a movement?

- John

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THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS AREN'T ENOUGH! The same public reaction from the government that has been used after every mass shooting, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those killed and those affected". While this may be sincere, it does nothing to enact change or reform policy to prevent future massacres.  

In order to make social change, individuals and organizations have to work together and take action.

- John

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Participant Observation: My good friend and I decided to take a stand because we both have experience with our communities facing gun violence. Being from Orlando, I was affected by the Pulse shooting and the fear that ensued while awaiting to see if my friends were safe. My friend went to a high school very close to Stoneman Douglas. Our signs depict our frustrations with the continuous efforts, but also indicate that we will keep fighting until this terrible event never happens again. - Nicole Blonsick

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Participant observation: students finally make it to the Tallahassee Capitol Building after walking from Westcott fountain on FSU's campus. It's hot outside, and you can feel the energy of the crowd. This is the first chance to assess the numbers of the entire crowd -- definitely in the thousands. We await speeches from high-school survivors and elected officials. - Sean

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A local business posts signs on their door that showcase strength and solidarity: #DouglasStrong and “We Stand with Douglas.” Seeking solidarity and providing solidarity is one of the key motivations for participation in social movements.

- Jordan