High school students got a rare glimpse into the way their political leaders in Washington, D.C., tackle some of the nation’s most pressing issues. And the issue at hand? Gun violence—now the leading cause of death among children in the United States.
The experience wasn’t just another classroom discussion. Instead, these students stepped into the shoes of policymakers, taking part in a mock congressional hearing held at the Warrensville Heights Municipal Building. Organized by the Ohio 11th District Youth Advisory Council, this event was designed to immerse students in government processes, public service, and conflict resolution.
Coordinated by U.S. Representative Shontel Brown, a Democrat from Warrensville Heights, and her staff, the council includes students from various high schools in the area. For the hearing, the students were randomly assigned roles as Democrats or Republicans, allowing them to conduct a committee hearing on youth-involved gun violence—one of the most debated topics in America today.
Real-Life Data Brings Harsh Reality to the Forefront
One of the most impactful moments of the hearing came when Dr. Michael Dingeldein, chief pediatric surgeon and trauma director at University Hospitals, presented some sobering statistics. He informed the committee that in 2021 alone, nearly 4,800 children and adolescents under the age of 19 lost their lives to firearms across the country.
“These statistics are not just numbers,” Dingeldein emphasized. “They represent toddlers caught in the crossfire, young children who find unsecured firearms in their homes, and teenagers shot over petty disputes.”
His testimony didn’t stop there. He went on to reveal that in 2023, Cleveland alone saw 25 children and teenagers under 18 killed by guns—a tragic reality that underscored the urgency of the discussion.
Diverse Perspectives Spark Thought-Provoking Debate
The hearing included various witnesses who presented different perspectives on the issue. Among them was Lakewood High School student Shannon Katzenberger, who played the role of a staunch advocate for the Second Amendment. On the other side of the spectrum, Cleveland Police Deputy Chief Ali Pillow provided testimony on why Ohio’s gun laws should be more restrictive.
For Orange High School student Mark Buckley, 17, who acted as one of the committee members, Deputy Pillow’s testimony left a lasting impact.
“Deputy Pillow’s rundown about the actual homicide count in Cleveland and what he has to deal with daily was disheartening to hear,” Buckley admitted.
The hearing got particularly intense when a student committee member posed a compelling question to Pillow: “Are you aware of any situation where bearing arms has saved lives?”
Pillow responded by citing Ohio’s Stand Your Ground Law, which eliminates an individual’s duty to retreat before using deadly force in self-defense. He pointed out that Cleveland investigates about five to six such cases per year.
However, he also highlighted a concerning trend following the enactment of a 2022 Ohio law that permits anyone over 21 to carry a concealed weapon without a permit. Since then, Pillow reported an increase in accidental shootings, self-inflicted injuries, and cases where improperly stored guns were stolen from vehicles.
The Devastating Impact on Young Lives
Dr. Dingeldein also painted a heartbreaking picture of how firearm injuries impact children. He explained that due to their anatomy, children’s organs are more compact than those of adults, meaning a single gunshot can destroy multiple vital organs.
“Even if they survive, the road to recovery is long and agonizing,” he testified. “We’re talking multiple surgeries, months in the ICU, years of rehabilitation, and the ever-present psychological scars.”
His words hit home for many in the room, forcing them to consider the real-world consequences of gun violence beyond statistics and policy debates.
Student Reflections: Lessons Learned and the Need for Action
After the hearing, two students from Warrensville Heights High School, Isaiah Heyman and Ashley Scott, both 16, reflected on their biggest takeaways.
For Scott, the event underscored the need to amplify discussions about gun violence.
“Gun violence is a humongous factor that needs to be spoken about, but it also needs to be reported,” Scott stressed. “It’s underreported, and we’ve become numb to it. We need to make reports and keep everyone informed.”
Heyman, who aspires to be a congressman one day, walked away with a deeper appreciation for bipartisan dialogue.
“It really was a big conversation,” he noted. “You know how problematic the issue is, and problematic issues require deep conversation. We need to talk to each other and listen to all viewpoints, regardless of political party.”
The Bigger Picture: Why Mock Hearings Matter
Although Representative Brown wasn’t present at the hearing, she later commented on its significance in a written statement.
“Congressional hearings have played a huge role in shaping history, bringing tough issues to the forefront, and driving real change,” Brown said.
And that’s precisely what this mock hearing aimed to do—empower young minds, give them a voice, and encourage them to engage with real-world issues that affect their communities.
For these students, it wasn’t just about playing the role of politicians. It was an opportunity to think critically, challenge their own beliefs, and develop a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding gun violence in America. Whether or not they pursue careers in politics, the lessons they took away from this experience will likely stick with them for years to come.
At a time when the country remains divided on gun laws and public safety, seeing the next generation tackle such a heated issue with maturity and thoughtfulness is a glimmer of hope. These students proved that, when given the opportunity, young voices can contribute meaningful perspectives to even the most difficult discussions.
And maybe, just maybe, some of them will be the ones shaping real policies in the future.
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