August 12, 2024
Dear Friends,
My name is Lindsey Ramirez, and I’m writing to you not only as an Austin school staff member but also as a parent who, like many of you, grapples with the very real fear of sending my child off to school each day.
Every morning, as I drop my child off, it feels like I’m leaving my heart outside my body. I trust our schools and our teachers, but I cannot ignore the environment our lawmakers have allowed to take shape. The fear that grips me throughout the day — until I finally pick my child up, safe in my arms again — is something no parent should have to endure.
Our children are forced to navigate a world where lockdown drills and “holds” are a part of their daily lives. The trauma they experience is profound. They hear stories of little kids, just like them, being gunned down in their classrooms.
They practice these drills knowing, deep down, that no amount of preparation can truly make them safe in a world where the laws fail to protect them.
The adults making these legal decisions hold a responsibility to every single member of their community, no matter how small. They owe it to us, to our children, to create a safe environment where our kids can learn and grow without fear.
That’s why I’m calling on you to take action today. Please reach out to your local school district and urge them to enforce the law that requires the distribution of safe gun storage information. This law is critical in ensuring that parents and guardians are informed about safe gun storage practices, which can prevent tragedies before they happen.
To make this easier, we’ve provided a sample letter that you can use to contact your district. It’s a small but powerful step that can make a real difference in protecting our children.
Our children deserve better. It’s time we demand real change to keep every child safe. Please join me in this effort.
Thank you for standing with me in this fight.
In solidarity,
Lindsey Ramirez
Austin School Staff Member and Parent