COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – Coeur d’Alene Schools are allowing students to take part in a walkout on Wednesday in protest of gun violence in schools.
While some people are pushing for stricter gun laws after the shooting, there are many who are firmly against it. Right before the walkout in Coeur d'Alene, there is a counter-protest.
"This is not intended to confront, provoke, bully or trigger any individuals. This is solely a celebration of our second amendment rights on a day when they are being challenged," counter protest organizer Brian Welch.
Welch said his event will also include a moment of silence for the 17 students killed in the Parkland, Florida shooting.
"The shooting in Florida was a tragic thing. And we acknowledge the loss of those wonderful young people and teachers," Welch explained.
Welch said there will also be a display of a rifle leaning against a tree that replicates a rifle, that over the years, had morphed into a tree at Great Basin National Park. He hopes to convey that the rifle does nothing without a human.
On the Facebook event Welch created for the rally, he encourages legal gun owners to bring their firearms if they choose to exercise their right to bear arms. In an email Welch sent to KREM 2, he said the rally will be for those who wish to voice their opposition to the nationwide calls for stricter gun laws.
"Guns are not inherently evil. They're just tools. They don't kill anybody by themselves," Welch said.
Welch said the rally is meant to be peaceful and confirms he has informed local law enforcement of the rally. It is expected to last until 11:30 a.m.
