Organizers expect 500,000 to attend anti-gun violence march in Washington

Organizers of a rally to curb gun violence and prevent school shootings are expecting up to 500,000 attendees at the event in Washington, D.C., next month. 

The planners behind “March For Our Lives” listed their attendance expectations on an application filed this week with the National Park Service, The Washington Post reported Thursday.

Mike Litterst, a spokesman for the National Park Service, told the newspaper that organizers initially suggested holding the rally at the National Mall. However, after discussions with park officials, they are looking at alternative locations on Pennsylvania Avenue and West Potomac Park.

{mosads}The survivors of last week’s shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., are organizing the event. A gunman opened fire in the school on Feb. 14, killing 17 people and injuring several others.

The “March For Our Lives” will feature student speakers, musical performers, guest speakers and video tributes, The Washington Post reported. Students in other cities across the country are invited to hold local marches as well. 

Since the “March For Our Lives” was first announced, celebrities have pledged money to support the event. George and Amal Clooney, Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg are among those who praised the students’ efforts and agreed to donate to the rally.

The debate over gun violence returned to the forefront in the wake of last week’s shooting.

President Trump has vowed he will push for improved background checks, banned bump stocks and an increased age requirement to buy rifles. He has also suggested arming teachers to prevent future school shootings.

Democratic lawmakers and some Republicans have called for legislation to curb gun violence, as well. The students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School have been among the most vocal proponents for new gun laws.