KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Thousands across the country took to the streets demanding action on gun reform in multiple cities on Saturday, including in downtown Knoxville.
Demonstrations were organized by "March for Our Lives," a national movement dedicated to eliminating "the epidemic of gun violence." These public protests come in the light of several mass shootings in the United States, including one in Uvalde, Texas where 19 children and two teachers were shot and killed.
The demonstration was held in Krutch Park in downtown Knoxville. "Moms Demand Action" along with other community organizations hosted the gathering. Protestors are demanding Congress take action and institute stricter gun laws.
Some of the co-organizers of the event had just graduated from high school and said they do this because school is no longer a safe place.
"This is a youth-led movement because we feel our schools are no longer safe for us," said one co-organizer. "We've been working with adults and children on a movement that is for all of us."