During floor debate in the Florida legislature on gun control laws, Republican Representative Elizabeth Porter belittled, mocked and insulted young people who are calling for an end to gun violence.

“We’ve been told to listen to the children and do what the children ask," said Porter. "Are there any children on this floor? … Do we allow children to pass a law that says ‘no homework’? The adults make the laws because we have the age, the wisdom, and the experience.”

Students are not trying to pass laws against homework. They’re fighting for comprehensive gun reform after surviving a school shooting—and inspiring youth all across the country to join their efforts. They do have the wisdom and experience to advocate for an end to gun violence. Representative Porter clearly does not.

What’s more, Porter seems to pride herself on legislating on “important” issues only adults can understand. Here’s a great example: when the Florida legislature voted to regulate porn instead of banning assault weapons just days after the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

Young people are the future of our country and our world. They are smart, engaged, passionate, and driven. It’s high time for legislators like Porter to take a step back and trust youth leadership.

Sign now to denounce Representative Porter’s demeaning floor speech. Youth voices in politics are critical.