ST. PAUL — Community members from Annunciation Catholic School gathered for a singing rally at the Minnesota State Capitol on March 2, 2026, voicing their concerns over the slow progress of gun safety legislation. Parents and supporters expressed frustration while holding on to hope for meaningful change following a tragic shooting on August 27, 2026, that resulted in the deaths of two students and injuries to 30 others.
During a recent testimony before House committees, parents urged lawmakers to support two significant bills: HF3433, which aims to ban military-style assault weapons, and HF3402, targeting large-capacity ammunition magazines. The rally featured emotional appeals for bipartisan unity, emphasizing the urgent need to address the fear families now live with.
Community Calls for Action
Jackie Flavin, whose daughter, Harper Moyski, was one of the two victims, articulated the anxiety faced by parents. She stated that many no longer sleep soundly, knowing their children are exposed to potential violence in what should be a safe environment. “An ordinary morning can turn unthinkable in seconds,” Flavin told legislators.
Another parent, Cally Proctor, emphasized the need for lawmakers to focus on the human impact of gun violence rather than allowing politics to overshadow the issue. “A child is not thinking about whether he attends a public or religious school; he’s simply terrified,” Proctor said. “It is not the job of the child to bear the burden of politics or adult decisions.”
On the morning of the rally, Gov. Tim Walz and First Lady Gwen Walz joined the crowd, singing along with attendees to songs like “Brave” by Sara Bareilles and “Purple Rain” by Prince. Many participants wore navy blue and green school uniforms, as well as sweatshirts with the slogan “Move Your Feet.”
Principal Matt DeBoer had previously encouraged the community to pray for healing but stressed the importance of taking action, inspired by the African proverb, “When you pray, move your feet.” Proceeds from merchandise sold at the event will support the recovery of students and teachers at Annunciation.
Concerns Over Legislative Progress
Despite the passionate display of solidarity, parents voiced their dissatisfaction with the lack of progress on gun control measures. Many expressed their disappointment over the failure to advance the proposed bills out of committee. “I wish there was a way we could come to an agreement,” said Lisa Luthi, a parent and substitute teacher. “Where are the bills to fund our schools? All I see in the comments is that it’s mental health. Yes, it is, but what are we doing about that?”
Supporters of the rally included Alec Torigian, who traveled from Indiana to show solidarity with the Annunciation community. “It’s disappointing, but we remain hopeful that lawmakers will step up and lead with care and love,” Torigian stated, referring to names of victims read aloud during the event.
Mike Moyski, Harper’s father and rally organizer, stressed that limiting access to firearms could mitigate the impacts of future tragedies. “Some seem unwilling to engage in constructive discussions about what could work,” he noted. “We need to maintain conversations about these human issues and how specific guns and ammunition impact people.”
Another rally participant, Lisa Shepherd, acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained optimistic. “We have a motivated group of individuals who will not be going away anytime soon,” she commented. “We are confident that there are solutions for change out there, and we want them.”
The Annunciation community continues to advocate for legislative action on gun safety, with parents and supporters determined to remain engaged in the political process as they seek to protect their children.
