Updated:

‘I stand with hope,’ says teacher

By
1147
0

Latest

Youth and others at the March for Our Lives protest to end gun violate in the schools. Washington, D.C.
PHOTO/ERIK MCGREGOR

 
Today a high school was the scene of yet another horrific and despicable parade of violence.
Also today 900 high schoolers gathered in Walt Disney Concert Hall to become a powerful force of beauty through song.
Today Flint remains without water, Puerto Rico without power, unarmed black men are still being shot by police, and bullets pour through students’ bodies like lead rivers. Guys. What have we done?
Today I stared out into the darkened concert hall and saw 900 lights piercing the blackness. “See how they shine,” they sang. “Like a bridge over troubled water,” they roared, “I will lay me down.”
In spite of the overwhelming ugliness, I still believe in beauty. Maybe there’s a bullet out there with my name on it. Till then, I stand with hope.
— From a Facebook post by Jessie Flasschoen, a high school choir director. Used with permission.
 

March for Our Lives, Washington, D.C.
PHOTO/SHANTEL MITCHELL BREEN

 

+ Articles by this author

The People’s Tribune opens its pages to voices of the movement for change. Our articles are written by individuals or organizations, along with our own reporting. Bylined articles reflect the views of the authors. Articles entitled “From the Editors” reflect the views of the editorial board. Please credit the source when sharing: peoplestribune.org. Please donate to help us keep bringing you voices of the movement for change. Click here. We’re all volunteer, no paid staff. The People’s Tribune is a 501C4 organization.

Featured

Fern Shen -

In Memory of Tenant Leader Annie Chambers, Longtime Advocate For Baltimore’s Poor

Reverend Annie Chambers leaves behind an unparalleled legacy of grassroots activism and unconditional love for her people, her family, her community and all those that struggle to survive.
Bob Lee, People's Tribune -

Pearson’s TN Win Rebukes Corporate Dems & Attack on Voting Rights

The decisive victory of Justin Pearson in the Tennessee Democratic congressional primary marked a rebuke of both the corporate Democrats and the attack on the Voting Rights Act.
From the Editors, People's Tribune -

Citizens United Takes a Hit in Michigan Primary

In electing Abdul El-Sayed, voters rejected money in politics, defeating the pro-Israel and corporate funded campaign of his opponent in the amount of $70 million, making it among the most ever spent in a Democratic Party primary!
Alexandra Renoult-Orlandini -

Death Toll Expected to Rise: Justice for Those in Detention

Detainees in ICE detention are pleading for help due to inhumane conditions. Now, as of August 4, 2026, at least 24 detainees have died in custody this year alone.
Sarah Lazare and Amy Livingston -

Minnesota Trade Unionists Among Those Targeted; Feds Indict ICE Observers

Minnesota trade unionists are among 15 people indicted by the federal government, as part of a crackdown on organizing in opposition to the ICE and Border Patrol. Support is needed.

More from the People's Tribune