Never Give Up

Today marks the start of Women's History Month. We want to begin by honoring Marjorie Stoneman Douglas, whose legacy as a journalist, environmental activist, women’s suffrage advocate, and self-described “tough old woman” has today become a model of persistence and courage for the student activists and survivors of the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High in Parkland, Florida.

““You have to stand up for some things in this world.”

—Marjory Stoneman Douglas”

Douglas, who spent her life fighting for the conservation of the Florida Everglades, and by extension, the planet, passed away in 1998 at the age of 108. She didn't believe in age.

““Life should be lived so vividly and so intensely that thoughts of another life, or of a longer life, are not necessary. There is nothing inherently wrong with a brain in your nineties. If you keep it fed and interested, you’ll find it lasts you very well.”

—Marjory Stoneman Douglas”

We watch in awe as the students of Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High fight to move our country from thoughts and prayers to policy and real change. Articulating many of our own emotions, frustrations and hopes about a situation for which we frequently have no words, they are demonstrating that wisdom is not always determined by age. 

Marjorie Stoneman Douglas, you’ve taught them well.

““There must be progress, certainly. But we must ask ourselves what kind of progress we want, and what price we want to pay for it.”
—Marjory Stoneman Douglas”