TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Two groups sending different messages, both rallied at the Florida capital Saturday.
People from all over the area came to Tallahassee, either in support of gun regulations or to push back against gun control efforts.
Gun rights advocates want to resist a movement to enforce stricter gun control laws. It all started in March, following the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.
Hundreds gathered outside the Capitol, saying they fear this is threatening their constitutional right to bear arms.
"We're here just simply expressing that we have the second amendment right, and we appreciate it, and we are going to protect it," said Robert Burns.
Speakers at the pro-gun rally say restrictions on gun ownership could lead to a ban entirely. Something that is guaranteed under the Second Amendment.
Gun owners say they wish they could find a compromise. However, many stand by their right to protect themselves and everyone around them by bearing arms.
"They'll defend other people who are not carrying. They would give their life if they had to, defending for the other people. I know I would," said Vali Brown.
Just a block away from the pro-gun rally, protesters for gun reform were also standing their ground, trying to create change by fighting for stricter gun laws.
"We're here to protest the inaction by our lawmakers, we're here to empower the youth, and we're here to lift up the voices of the Tallahassee community, the Parkland community, communities all across Florida," said Alex Wind, March for Our Lives Student Organizer.
The March for Our Lives protest is part of the Road to Change tour, which is led by Marjory Stoneman Douglas students.
They're traveling all over the country, encouraging young voters to get informed and make their voices heard in the polls.
"There's a lot of kids, school members, peers of my own, friends, who don't feel empowered enough to make a change," said Kayla Dixon, March for Our Lives Student Organizer.
You can't make a change without knowing what you believe in. And that's what protesters want to accomplish with the March for Our Lives Rally.
Organizers say, they hope everyone leaves knowing where they stand on gun policies and what they want to see for their future.
Based on the amount of energy at both rallies Saturday afternoon, it's clear both groups are passionate about what they stand for.
However, as of right now, they haven't found a compromise on gun policies.
