David Hogg, a survivor of the Parkland shooting, has become a key voice for gun control and safer schools in America1. After the tragic event at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, he stepped up to challenge politicians, criticize the NRA, and inspire young people to make a difference2. He urges everyone to “get over politics and get something done” because of the frustration with gun violence.
Key Takeaways
- David Hogg, a Parkland shooting survivor, is a prominent young activist advocating for gun control and school safety.
- Hogg has been a vocal critic of the NRA and has called for stricter gun laws, including red flag laws and background checks.
- The March for Our Lives movement, which Hogg co-founded, mobilized one of the largest youth protests in modern American history.
- Hogg has used his platform to encourage youth voter registration and engagement, leading to increased turnout in the 2018 midterm elections.
- Hogg’s advocacy and activism have made him a controversial figure, facing conspiracy theories and criticism from opponents of gun control.
Parkland Shooting Survivor Turned Activist
On February 14, 2018, David Hogg’s life changed forever when a gunman attacked his high school in Parkland, Florida. This event killed 17 people3. As a senior at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Hogg found himself in the biggest school shooting in the U.S. history. This event made him a key activist in the fight against gun violence3.
David Hogg’s Life-Changing Moment
After the shooting, Hogg became a leader in the 2018 U.S. gun violence protests3. His powerful words and strong calls for action made him a key figure in the movement to stop gun violence3.
Founding March for Our Lives Movement
Hogg and other students started the March for Our Lives movement. This movement led to a huge protest in Washington just five weeks after the shooting3. The March for Our Lives became a big anti-gun violence protest. David Hogg helped start it after the Parkland shooting4.
Gen Z and millennials are 45% of the voters but hold only 21% of state legislature seats4. The Leaders We Deserve PAC will support 15-30 candidates under 30 in key states like Florida, Texas, and Georgia4.
“Together with his sister Lauren Hogg, David wrote a book titled ‘#Never Again: A New Generation Draws the Line,’ which made The New York Times Best Seller list. They pledged to donate all income from the book to charity.”3
Hogg was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 20183. He has dyslexia, ADHD, and PTSD3. In February 2021, he took a break from March for Our Lives to think and reassess3. In July 2022, he interrupted a House hearing to support the 2021 Assault Weapons Ban and the Equal Access for Victims of Gun Violence Act3.
David Hogg was born on April 12, 2000, making him 24 years old (as of the article date)3. He started fighting for gun control in 2018 and has been active since3. David Hogg graduated from Harvard University in May 2023 after starting in 20193. After his sister Lauren graduated in 2021, the Hogg family moved to Washington, D.C3.
Advocating for Safer Schools and Gun Reform
After the Parkland shooting, 17 people lost their lives5. David Hogg became a strong voice for stricter gun laws and safer schools. As a survivor, he spoke out against politicians backed by the NRA, pushing for laws that could save lives5.
Passionate Voice Against Gun Violence
Hogg supports “red flag” laws to take guns from those who are a danger to themselves or others5. His strong voice and dedication to ending gun violence have made him a key figure in the “Never Again” movement. This movement has inspired young people across the country to speak up against gun violence5.
The March for Our Lives in Washington, D.C., on March 24, 2018, was huge, with over 800,000 people joining5. On June 11, 2022, more than 70,000 people marched in D.C., and hundreds of marches happened nationwide, all for gun reform5.
Since Parkland, over 200,000 Americans have been affected by gun violence, showing the need for action5. Hogg believes getting the 60% of Americans aged 30-60 to vote is key to changing gun laws5.
Despite efforts, mass shootings in the U.S. have risen, with about 600 in the last year6. The Uvalde, Texas, tragedy killed 19 children and two adults, a sad reminder of the ongoing issue6.
Hogg fights for responsible gun use and corrects false media portrayals of his views and the gun reform movement5. He compares the fight against gun control to the long battle against the tobacco industry, suggesting it could take decades for change6.
Groups like March for Our Lives have pushed lawmakers to pass stricter gun laws6. On June 24, 2022, the U.S. passed its biggest gun safety law in 30 years5. Michigan then signed laws on safe storage, background checks, and extremist protection, the first in 40 years5.
Rise to National Prominence
David Hogg became a national leader after the Parkland shooting7. He encouraged young people to vote for those who support gun control7. His work made him one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 20187.
Mobilizing Youth for Social Change
Hogg has been a strong voice against gun violence in America7. Despite criticism, he keeps pushing for youth empowerment, political advocacy, youth activism, and civic engagement7. He has inspired many young people to demand change from their leaders8.
| Key Statistic | Impact |
|---|---|
| 36 mass killings occurred in the U.S. up to the time of the speech | Shows the urgent need for action on gun violence |
| Over 100 laws strengthening gun control were enacted at the state level due to activism | Shows how youth-led movements can lead to policy changes |
| “Red flag” law in Florida, disarming individuals posing immediate threats, used over 6,000 times | Shows the success of targeted gun control measures |
Hogg’s efforts have changed the national conversation on gun violence8. He has inspired others to keep fighting for a safer future8.
“I’m not going to be the next president, but I’m going to make sure I get the best policy that’s going to fix these problems.”8 – David Hogg
David Hogg
David Hogg is an American gun control activist who became famous after surviving the 2018 Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida9. He was a student then and became a strong voice for stricter gun laws and safer schools9.
He helped start the March for Our Lives movement. This movement led to big protests and rallies for better gun laws10. Over 800,000 people joined in Washington, D.C. alone10. Hogg has worked hard to get young people involved and push for changes9.
Even with conspiracy theories and criticism, Hogg has kept fighting for his cause3. He talks about the need to address gun access, mental health, and poverty to stop gun violence9. He also stresses the importance of taking care of oneself after such traumatic events9.
| Key Milestones | Details |
|---|---|
| Parkland Shooting | Hogg was a student at Marjorie Stoneham High School in Parkland, Florida, where 17 students and staff were killed in a shooting incident in February 20189. |
| March for Our Lives | Hogg co-founded the March for Our Lives movement, which organized nationwide protests and rallies calling for legislative changes to address gun violence10. |
| Advocacy and Impact | Hogg has been a leading voice in the fight for stricter gun laws and safer schools, using his platform to advocate for legislative changes and mobilize youth engagement10. He was included in Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 20183. |
| Education and Achievements | Hogg graduated from Harvard University in May 2023, five years after surviving the Parkland shooting3. He co-wrote a book titled “#Never Again: A New Generation Draws The Line” with his sister, Lauren10. |
As a Parkland shooting survivor and gun control activist, David Hogg has become a key figure in fighting gun violence in the U.S9.. His strong commitment and ability to rally young people have made him a big voice in the national debate10.
“There is more agreement than disagreement on the issue of gun control, and I think that’s something that’s really important for people to understand.”
– David Hogg9
Calls for Stricter Gun Laws
David Hogg is a strong advocate for stricter gun laws in the U.S. He supports universal background checks, banning assault weapons, and “red flag” laws. These laws let authorities take guns from people seen as threats11.
Hogg pushes for wide-ranging gun reform to fight gun violence in America. He calls out politicians backed by the NRA, asking them to support laws that could save lives11.
Since the Parkland shooting, more people want stricter gun laws. A survey found 68% of Americans support these laws, up from 60% last year11. Hogg’s activism has helped spark this change, especially among young people leading the gun control movement.
| Statistic | Source |
|---|---|
| 4.4% of the world’s population resides in the United States, while it accounts for roughly 42% of the world’s guns (2007 Small Arms Survey). | 11 |
| Approximately 31% of the world’s mass shooters are American, according to a University of Alabama study. | 11 |
| Support for the NRA has decreased to 37%, according to a WSJ/NBC poll, marking the first time since 2000 that the organization has been viewed more negatively than positively. | 11 |
| The Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida resulted in 17 deaths and 17 injuries. | 12 |
| The shooting in Parkland, Florida was the deadliest mass shooting at a high school in U.S. history. | 12 |
| The El Paso Walmart mass shooting on August 3, 2019, left 23 people dead and numerous others injured. | 12 |
| The gunman in the El Paso Walmart shooting admitted to targeting Hispanics, posting online, “This attack is a response to the Hispanic invasion of Texas.” | 12 |
Hogg’s efforts have sparked a youth-led movement for gun control and gun violence prevention in the U.S. As a survivor of the Parkland shooting, he amplifies young voices calling for action on school safety and gun reform issues.
Controversial Figure and Target of Attacks
David Hogg is a key figure in the gun control debate. Some critics and opponents have hit him with conspiracy theories and personal attacks13. They’ve falsely called him a “crisis actor”13.
Despite the criticism and attacks, Hogg keeps pushing for change. He challenges the NRA and calls for action on gun violence13. A video of Marjorie Taylor Greene confronting him went viral in March 201913. Hogg then asked Kevin McCarthy to speak out against Greene13.
Facing Conspiracy Theories and Criticism
Hogg’s activism has drawn conspiracy theories and attacks. Some groups have wrongly called him a “crisis actor”13. Others have launched personal attacks and smear campaigns13. Yet, Hogg keeps fighting for safer schools and gun reform13.
| Company | Action Taken |
|---|---|
| Nutrish, Wayfair, TripAdvisor, Nestle, Expedia, Johnson & Johnson, Stitch Fix, Sleep Number, Jenny Craig, Honda, Office Depot, Jos A. Bank, Liberty Mutual, Miracle Ear, Ruby Tuesday, Principal, Entertainment Studios, Bayer, Ace Hardware, Allstate, Atlantis Paradise Island Resort, Blue Apron, Slim fast, IBM, Red Lobster | Pulled ads or confirmed they will no longer advertise during the show featuring the controversial figure targeted by attacks14. |
Companies have been pulling ads from the show over time, showing a strong stance against controversy14. David Hogg believes these actions are just the start, hinting at ongoing effects on advertisers14.
The drama with Laura Ingraham mocking David Hogg and the backlash that followed shows the strength of youth activism15. It also makes us think about the responsibility of public figures, especially when talking to young people15.
“The actions taken by the various companies to remove advertising from the controversial figure’s show signify just the beginning.”
– David Hogg, Parkland Activist14
Youth Activism and Civic Engagement
David Hogg has worked hard to get young people involved in politics16. He encourages them to vote and take part in elections. He knows that together, they can make big changes16. His goal is to make communities safer and push for gun reform.
Encouraging Voter Participation
Hogg wants more young people to vote16. He believes their voices matter at the polls16. He works with groups like the Center for Civic Engagement and Service (CCES) at North to teach students how to be active citizens16.
Claudia Wu from CCES says advocacy and community work help students get involved16. Hogg agrees, saying young people must act to see change in their communities and country16.
“We’re going to make sure the young people of this country get a chance to take the reins and lead.”
– David Hogg
The March for Our Lives movement, started by Hogg and others, has motivated young people to get involved16. It focuses on stopping gun violence by supporting mental health and cultural changes16. This has encouraged many young Americans to vote and engage in politics16.
Hogg’s dedication to young people and civic action has made him a strong voice for his generation1617. He keeps inspiring and empowering young people to shape the future of the U.S1617..
Published Author and Social Media Influencer
David Hogg is not just an activist; he’s also a published author. He and his sister Lauren wrote “#Never Again: A New Generation Draws the Line,” a New York Times bestseller. This book tells their story after the Parkland shooting18. At just 17 and 14 years old, they shared their raw and honest experiences18.
On social media, Hogg spreads his message far and wide. He uses Twitter to encourage people to get involved in civic issues and fight against gun violence prevention. With over 1 million followers, he’s a key social media influencer pushing for change19.
But, Hogg has faced backlash and conspiracy theories. Yet, he keeps fighting, rallying young people to support stricter gun laws19.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Marches Held | 800 |
| Book Profanity | Infrequent |
| Charity Donations | Proceeds from book |
As a published author and social media star, David Hogg leads the fight against gun violence. His dedication to change and engaging the youth has made him a key figure in the movement for safer schools and communities1819.
“We’re going to make sure that this is the last time this ever happens.”
– David Hogg, #NeverAgainco-author
Future Plans and Aspirations
David Hogg is still dedicated to ending gun violence and making the world a better place20. He wants to bring common-sense gun reform to Congress, working with both Democrats and Republicans20. His bill aims to help prevent gun sales to those who are suicidal or don’t want to buy a gun20. Hogg hopes to run for Congress one day to pass stricter gun laws and make schools and communities safer21.
Continuing the Fight Against Gun Violence
Hogg leads the “Never Again” movement, pushing for change and encouraging people to get involved22. After the shooting at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School, he helped start the March For Our Lives movement22. This movement shares personal stories of loss to support gun control laws, showing how gun violence has affected lives22.
As an activist and student, Hogg is a senior at Harvard University and wants to start a skateboarding club20. Even with a full schedule, he’s focused on ending gun violence and making a safer future for everyone21.
“I’m going to make sure that no one else has to experience the pain of losing a friend, a classmate, a sibling, a parent, a teacher, or anyone in their life due to gun violence.”
David Hogg’s determination and passion make him a strong voice against gun violence21. He inspires others to join the fight for a safer future for all21.
Impact on American Politics and Culture
David Hogg has changed American politics and culture a lot. He’s a key voice in the gun control movement. He challenges politicians, pushes for new laws, and gets young people involved in politics23.
Hogg has made a big difference by getting young people to take action. He talks about gun violence, school safety, and how young people can make a difference24. He shows that students can change the future of the country24.
The Leaders We Deserve group, led by David Hogg, supports young candidates in politics23. They focus on state and federal races in 202423. The goal is to help young people win seats and shape the country’s future23.
This group aims to strengthen the Democratic Party with young leaders23. They work with young politicians like Representative Maxwell Frost and Kevin Lata23. Their main goal is to make politics more youthful and address the concerns of young people23.
David Hogg believes in the power of young people in politics23. He wants to make sure their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed23. The goal is to make democracy stronger by getting young people involved23.
The March for Our Lives in 2018 started a movement that led to many new gun laws24. Since then, a special law to protect people at risk has been used over 9,000 times24. Sadly, gun violence is now the top cause of death for kids in the U.S24..
Gen Z wants to stop gun violence because it affects young people a lot24. They look at things in a bigger way, not just one issue at a time24. They’re watching politicians like Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis, showing how important the 2024 elections will be24.
“The system, while flawed, is amenable to improvement through engagement and advocacy.”
– David Hogg
Conclusion
David Hogg’s journey from a survivor of the Parkland shooting to a gun control advocate is inspiring25. At 17, he shared his story, bringing attention to the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. This event, where 17 people were killed in six minutes, made him a national figure25. He quickly became known through media, including an interview with George Stephanopoulos on ABC News.
Hogg has dedicated himself to stopping gun violence and empowering youth. His leadership in the March for Our Lives movement was a huge success26. He worked to register young voters and support candidates for stricter gun laws26. This made him a key youth activist and advocate for gun violence prevention.
David Hogg keeps pushing for stricter gun laws and encouraging civic engagement. He inspires young people to get involved in activism. His efforts have led to over 100 new gun laws at the state level since the Parkland shooting26. This shows his strong impact on American politics and culture.
FAQ
Who is David Hogg?
David Hogg is a survivor of the Parkland shooting. He’s now a young activist fighting for gun control and safer schools in America.
What happened to David Hogg?
On February 14, 2018, David Hogg’s life changed forever. A gunman attacked his high school in Parkland, Florida, killing 17 people. This event made him a key activist for gun control.
What is David Hogg’s role in the gun control movement?
David Hogg fights for stricter gun laws and safer schools. He co-founded the March for Our Lives movement. He also criticizes politicians and supports “red flag” laws.
How has David Hogg’s activism impacted the gun control debate?
David Hogg’s efforts have made him a national figure. He inspires young people to vote for stronger gun control. His work has changed the gun control conversation.
What have been the challenges and criticisms David Hogg has faced?
David Hogg has faced conspiracy theories and personal attacks. Some call him a “crisis actor.” But he keeps advocating for change, challenging the NRA, and pushing for action on gun violence.
How has David Hogg’s activism inspired youth engagement?
David Hogg has worked hard to get young people involved in politics. He encourages them to vote and take part in elections. He believes in the power of their voices to create change.
What other ways has David Hogg made an impact?
David Hogg has also made a mark as a writer. He and his sister Lauren wrote “#NeverAgain: A New Generation Draws the Line.” It tells their story and the aftermath of the Parkland shooting.
What are David Hogg’s future plans and aspirations?
David Hogg wants to run for Congress one day. He aims to pass stricter gun laws and make schools safer. He continues to lead the “Never Again” movement, pushing for change and encouraging people to get involved.
Source Links
- Anti-gun violence activist David Hogg: There are ways to stop the shootings | WITF – https://www.witf.org/2023/10/26/anti-gun-violence-activist-david-hogg-there-are-ways-to-stop-the-shootings/
- A lesson Parkland shooting survivor David Hogg learned: Find the joy – https://www.npr.org/2023/06/08/1180945273/parkland-david-hogg-gun-reform-march-for-our-lives
- David Hogg – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Hogg
- Parkland shooting survivor David Hogg launches organization to guide a “new generation” into politics – https://www.cbsnews.com/news/parkland-survivor-david-hogg-leaders-we-deserve-political-organization-launch/
- School shooting survivor brings message to QU – https://www.qu.edu/quinnipiac-today/school-shooting-survivor-brings-message-to-qu-2023-11-11/
- David Hogg on the movement against gun violence, five years after Parkland – https://www.cbsnews.com/news/david-hogg-on-the-movement-against-gun-violence-five-years-after-parkland/
- Parkland’s David Hogg challenges students to remain activists, even if they don’t go to college – https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-fix/wp/2018/03/30/parklands-david-hogg-challenges-students-to-remain-activists-even-if-they-dont-go-to-college/
- Activist David Hogg calls for gun control, youth political engagement at Etown Leffler Lecture – One United Lancaster – https://oneunitedlancaster.com/community/activist-david-hogg-calls-for-gun-control-youth-political-engagement-at-etown-leffler-lecture/
- David Hogg: Bridging the Divide – https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/david-hogg-bridging-divide-john-baldoni
- < A lesson Parkland shooting survivor David Hogg learned: Find the joy – https://www.npr.org/transcripts/1180945273
- How Parkland Students Are Taking on Politicians in the Gun Control Battle – https://time.com/longform/never-again-movement/
- ‘Apathy is deadly’: Gun violence takes center stage at 2024 Texas Democratic Convention – https://www.elpasotimes.com/story/news/politics/2024/06/08/el-pasoans-texans-urged-to-fight-for-stricter-gun-control-laws-david-hogg-walmart-mass-shooting/73989516007/
- Video surfaces of Marjorie Taylor Greene confronting Parkland shooting survivor with baseless claims | CNN Politics – https://www.cnn.com/2021/01/27/politics/marjorie-taylor-greene-david-hogg-video/index.html
- At Least 26 Companies Have Now Pulled Their Ads From Laura Ingraham’s Fox News Show After She Mocked A Parkland Survivor – https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/coralewis/fox-anchor-laura-ingraham-parkland-david-hogg
- Can the Parkland kids persuade us to act more like adults? – https://www.hollandsentinel.com/story/opinion/columns/2018/03/30/can-parkland-kids-persuade-us/12859765007/
- Activist David Hogg encourages student civic engagement, advocates against gun violence – https://thenewtonite.com/34176/news/activist-david-hogg-encourages-student-civic-engagement-advocates-against-gun-violence/
- Parkland Survivor David Hogg Discusses Activism, Voting and May 4 During Kent State Talk – https://www.kent.edu/today/news/parkland-survivor-david-hogg-discusses-activism-voting-during-kent-state-talk
- #NeverAgain: A New Generation Draws the Line Book Review – https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/neveragain-a-new-generation-draws-the-line
- David Hogg, Child Media Star – https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/david-hogg-child-media-star-michael-shannon
- David Hogg on ending gun violence, building a movement and his future in activism – The Tufts Daily – https://www.tuftsdaily.com/article/2022/09/david-hogg-on-ending-gun-violence-building-a-movement-and-his-future-in-activism
- Common Dreams – https://www.commondreams.org/tag/gun-violence
- “We Say No More:” The Role of Bodily Trauma and Hybrid Spaces in the March For Our Lives Movement – https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=11126&context=etd
- ‘We’re not just voting. We’re also running.’ David Hogg launches young candidate PAC – https://www.npr.org/2023/08/09/1191455776/young-voters-david-hogg-pac-campaign-elections-genz-millennial
- How the March for Our Lives activists see the country now – https://www.vox.com/podcasts/2023/3/26/23655646/david-hogg-maxwell-frost-gen-z-politics
- Parkland Activist David Hogg Is Taking His Gap Year at the Barricades – https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2018/08/david-hogg-is-taking-his-gap-year-at-the-barricades.html
- Democracy Works: David Hogg on leaders we deserve – https://radio.wpsu.org/opinion/2024-04-22/democracy-works-david-hogg-on-leaders-we-deserve
