April 21 - Florida School Walk Out - Everything You Need to Know

Students from over 300 high schools and colleges across Florida are expected to take part in the 'Walk Out To Learn' project on April 21. The initiative comes as a response to what advocates claim is an increase in anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-education measures by the state government.

As part of the project, students will be involved in walkouts and rallies, pledge to be active voters, complete a brief lesson on banned policies, and enroll in a virtual African-American history course. A certificate will be awarded to those who complete the history course.

According to Zander Moricz, one of the principal organizers, the Walk out to Learn project is designed to provide short-term resources and tools while building long-term power to regain control of the Florida legislature.

Moricz wrote the following:

"Right now, Florida’s people do not have control over their legislature—their governor does. So as we spend all of our time protesting, rallying, and walking out in an attempt to stop our legislature from abusing their power and us, Ron DeSantis is cackling because he knows it won’t work. He knows that every oppressive bill he sends to the legislature will become law because he and his followers have a supermajority. And, as we organize around stopping terrible laws, organizers are giving up and going home because they feel like they can’t make a difference. But, we can make a difference and we need to keep fighting. We just have to start thinking strategically together. Walkout 2 Learn recognizes the harmful fascism that Floridians are experiencing every day and will provide immediate, short-term solutions to every participant so that they may protect themselves and their communities. In the long-term, Walkout 2 Learn will give every participant avenues to build power and community so that the next time we have a chance at making our voices heard in the legislature, we’re ready. Instead of showing up to a walkout, chanting, and leaving, students will learn a piece of history banned by Florida's legislature, sign an active voter pledge, affirm their electoral power to their elected officials, and enroll in a virtual African American history course. No matter where you are, you can help us. Please do!"

Furthermore, the tools created by the group prompts users to register to vote, with the process taking just 90 seconds. The platform then sends the signed pledge and voter registration information to elected officials, from school board members to the Senate. Moricz asserts that this feature makes the tool an effective instrument for civic engagement.

In the evening, there will be rallies with guest speakers as part of the event. The Walk Out To Learn project aims to make a difference in the Florida legislature by raising awareness and empowering young people to take action.

You can donate to "Walkout to Learn" through the following ActBlue Link: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/social-equity-through-education-alliance-