regardless of what we may see in the White House and Congress.
I am sick. So I spent the day at home, in front of my TV, watching the events as part of the “March” in DC.
Organized in less than two months.
On August 28, 1963, I came to Washington for the March for Jobs and Justice. We had quarter million.
The youngest speaker was John Lewis at age 23.
Then, like today, there were famous musicians performing.
Today — no speaker was over18,and two were only 11, and there was a granddaughter of Dr. King who was probably younger.
The remarks of 11 year old Naomi Wadler were especially powerful.
I heard clear articulation of what we need to address, including from a remarkable 11 year old girl from nearby Alexandria Virginia whose words and expression put to shame the vast majority of our public officials.
That the students from Stoneman Douglas brought in so many from places like South Central and DC and Newtown and Chicago shows that young people -like those in the Arab Spring — know how to organize.
I am of the baby boomer generation. What I saw today more than equals all that our activism did.
Which is why I have hope.
I have spent much of this time weeping — tears of joy.
What could this country be like if so many are inspired to participate politically, to reclaim the notion of what democracy should be.
As Jennifer Hudson began singing a Bob Dylan song from 1964. I felt inspired.
I need to reflect now it will affect my teaching.
I am most moved by the silence — lasting the duration of the actual shooting — of Emma Gonzalez.
I will continue to teach as long as I can.
Because young people give me hope.
How about you?