Minnesota Students Demand Gun Control Following Annunciation Shooting
On September 5, 2025, students across Minnesota staged walkouts to demand legislative action on gun control following the devastating August 27 shooting at Annunciation Catholic School, which resulted in two fatalities and 21 injuries. The walkouts, which involved 37 schools in the state, were part of a coordinated effort to push for bans on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.
High schoolers from St. Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists (SPCPA) took part in the walkout, leaving class Friday afternoon to gather with signs that read “Ban guns, not education” and “Am I next?”
Student-Led Movement for Gun Control
Mason Yang, 17, of Maplewood, expressed frustration and determination, stating, “I feel like, enough has been enough. And I feel like I’m in a spot where I can use my voice and I’m allowed to and that I have the privilege of getting up and organizing an event like this.” The group held a moment of silence before making its way to the Capitol, where they joined other students and advocates calling for immediate legislative action.
Other St. Paul schools, including Central and Highland Park high schools, also participated in the walkouts, with students holding signs and chanting slogans to demand change.
Calls for Legislative Action
According to Everytown for Gun Safety, mass shootings where an assault weapon was used have resulted in nearly six times as many people shot and more than twice as many killed compared to those that did not involve one. Gov. Tim Walz has announced plans to call a special session to address gun policy, but passing bills banning certain semiautomatic rifles and limiting the capacity of magazines would require Republican support.
A coalition of faith leaders and advocates held a press conference at the Capitol to call for an immediate legislative special session to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, emphasizing the need for urgent action to prevent further tragedies.
Students, such as Victoria Mitchell, 14, shared personal stories of the impact of gun violence, stating, “I guess I’m taking part in this walkout because I have seen the pain and the suffering of kids that have been impacted by gun violence.” 
As the student-led movement for gun control continues to gain momentum, it remains to be seen whether lawmakers will respond to the demands for change. For now, students, advocates, and community leaders will keep pushing for a safer future, free from the threat of gun violence.
