March for Our Lives protests updates LIVE — Survivors’ heartbreaking pleas as they beg for change across the US

THOUSANDS of people have shown out around the country today to demand tighter gun control measures in the aftermath of numerous horrific shootings this year.

Speakers at the events across the nation include shooting victims and their parents, such as Manuel Oliver, whose 17-year-old son was killed in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida in 2018.

During his speech, Oliver said: "Our elected officials betrayed us and have avoided the responsibility to end gun violence."

Also at the protest, security personnel were seen taking away a man who disturbed a moment of silence during the rally in Washington DC.

According to , before tossing what looks to be a water bottle, the agitator was heard saying “I am the gun,” among other things.

After the man was escorted out, the demonstration proceeded.

Hundreds of marches and rallies are taking place around the country, including in New York City, Milwaukee, Orlando, and Los Angeles.

The plea for action comes after a number of recent shootings have taken place across the US states such as Texas, New York, Maryland, and Oklahoma.

Read our March for Our Lives blog for the latest news and updates...