Florida shooting survivors turned away from state Senate president’s office: report

Some students who survived the deadly Florida high school shooting last week were reportedly turned away from the state Senate president’s office when rallying Wednesday at the state capital.

Students who arrived at the office of Republican Joe Negron were told: “Appointments only,” according to CNN.

Students at the capital held up signs, including one that said: “Arms are for HUGGING” and another that said “Parkland Strong.”

Students are turned away from the Senate president’s office. “Appointment only,” they’re told. pic.twitter.com/EujmTaoo0I

— Eliott C. McLaughlin (@EliottCNN) February 21, 2018

Negron on Wednesday, however, did appear to meet with some students who survived the shooting in a larger setting, according to his Twitter feed.

I was honored to meet with several groups of students from #StonemanDouglas High School earlier today. @Rob_Bradley @BillGalvano and I reiterated the @FLSenate‘s commitment to swift action to help prevent a tragedy like this from ever happening again. pic.twitter.com/qPvTqE7Gqm

— Joe Negron (@joenegronfl) February 21, 2018

The students traveled to the state’s capital Wednesday to talk to lawmakers about gun control.

The students — who have become vocal advocates in recent days for reforms to gun laws — organized about 70 meeting with lawmakers, according to CNN.

They are demanding that lawmakers take action to prevent future shootings after 17 people were killed when a gunman opened fire at their high school in Parkland, Fla.

In the days since the shooting, students at schools across the country have planned walkouts to protest gun violence and show their solidarity.

Students also organized a march later this year in Washington, D.C. to demand action.

–This report was updated at 12:14 p.m.