House Democrats staged a sit-in this week calling for a vote on gun violence prevention legislation, less than two weeks after the mass shooting in Orlando that left 49 dead and 53 injured.

The legislation would expand background checks on guns and limit gun sales to individuals on government watch lists. The Republican majority refused to bring the legislation to a vote, causing the over 24 hour protest. Despite the sit-in’s purpose of #NoVoteNoBreak, it ended when Speaker Paul Ryan adjourned the session for the 4th of July break without taking any action. He called it a “publicity stunt” on CNN.

Minnesotans can be proud of Rep. Keith Ellison, Rep. Rick Nolan, and Rep. Betty McCollum who all joined the call for “action”. Senators Al Franken and Amy Klobuchar also stopped by the House to show their support.

A Star Tribune poll found that 82% of Minnesotans approve of background checks on all gun sales.

While legislation alone may not solve the epidemic of gun violence that has taken hold of America, it’s clear inaction has allowed the problem to grow. Let’s applaud Minnesota’s progressive leaders for taking a stand to reduce senseless gun violence and #DisarmHate in our country.