High school students push for gun reforms with gatherings at schools and state capitol

PHOENIX (AP) - A few Arizona state lawmakers have met with small groups of high school students who traveled to the Capitol to share their concerns about gun violence.

"We have come here today," said student Jordan Harb. "Representatives are not listening to us. We have called. Sent cards. They continue to ignore us."

Some students say they want action

"I want to see bills being passed," said Molly Jimmerson. "Ban on bump stocks. I want the gun show loophole closed. Universal background checks need to be a thing."

Among the legislators talking with the students Wednesday was Mesa Republican Rusty Bowers. Bowers agreed with the young people that controls were needed for bump stocks, which can be attached to a semi-automatic rifle to enable the gun's action to mimic automatic fire.

Harb, 17, said the meeting, while constructive, could have gone better.

Harb said of Bowers: "He is still not understanding of the emotional needs we have."

Other students said they have found inspiration from the students who died in the Parkland, Florida shooting. Some students say they know changes in gun laws will spark controversy, but they are OK with that.

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The meeting happened on a day where 17-minute walkouts were scheduled at schools across the country, as well as around the Valley, to remember the 17 high school students killed in a shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida.

According to the Associated Press (AP), about 1,000 students protesting gun violence gathered on the softball field at Xavier College Preparatory, a Catholic high school for girls in Phoenix.

In addition, the AP reported that students at Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale walked out to the football field, with some chanting "enough is enough."

The AP also reported that about 400 students at Brophy College Preparatory Academy also took part in a gathering on an outdoor lawn, to remember the students killed.

Some students hoped to get the attention of Gov. Doug Ducey. The students chanted "Ducey, where you at? The youth are here", but the Governor did not meet with the students. who sent an advisor to meet with the students instead.

The Associated Press (AP) contributed to this report.