Etowah sophomore, Kailen Kim, walked side-by-side with Congressman John Lewis in the Atlanta March for Our Lives (MFOL) rally. On Mar. 24, the duo led the protest of over 70,000 people to fight for legislation to address gun violence issues in America.  

“What motivated me to really get involved in the planning and organizing of the MFOL – ATL march was seeing the Parkland survivors speak out – without rest – right after the shooting because they have had enough… we have all had enough,” Kim said.  

For MFOL, Kim currently is the of co-leader of the press and communications committee where she helps organize, as well as communicate information to other committees. Her responsibilities include: writing press releases, creating platforms, sending texts to their text-op, creating promotional videos, and speaking with the press. Having already granted numerous interviews to outlets such as FOX 5 and 11-Alive, at the rally, Kim recited a self-written poem titled “Violence” that acknowledged the torment of those who protested for justice on behalf of Michael Brown.  

   “I was inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, and I wanted to write a poem about the mistreatment happening towards the protestors,” Kim said.  

Kim and Lewis, a civil rights leader who walked alongside Martin Luther King Jr., guided the march through Atlanta. Kim, a student organizer and co-leader, was encouraged to walk beside Lewis with all the other student organizers involved. Starting at the Center for Civil and Human Rights, the two led the rally while reciting chants all the way to the Georgia State Capitol where Parkland students and many others spoke about gun violence.  

“He is my hero and an inspiration to many. Marching beside him made me feel so empowered. Hopeful. Adults may belittle us students because we’re ‘too young to understand,’ but… John Lewis taught me that no matter what age you are, your voice is powerful. Change will happen,” Kim said.  

Kim was chosen to represent the MFOL movement and to talk on award-winning journalist Rose Scott’s radio show. On Scott’s program, “Closer Look,” Kim publicized the movement and explained to Scott the group’s main mission: to see change.  

“I think there were definitely things I should’ve talked about, but at the time, I was pretty nervous and thrilled at the same time to be at NPR Atlanta. I believe it went smoothly, and she was an incredible host,” Kim said.  

To take part in the March for Our Lives mission, visit the website or reach out to them through social media. Visit their Twitter, Instagram, and/or Facebook @mfolgeorgia. Text “@mfolatl” to 81010 to receive reminds for more opportunities to get involved.