NEW YORK - Thousands of teens in the Big Apple took part Friday in a national day of action to protest gun violence.

Students from schools across the five boroughs walked out of their classrooms and many gathered at Washington Square Park.

They want lawmakers to pass stricter gun laws that include a ban on assault weapons and universal background checks.

Participants say they want to be the generation that changes things for the better.

"Lately there's been a ton of mass shootings, including against students. So we don't know if we're safe any more there's been so many. So we want something to be done," said one student.

"Most of the people here are voting in 2020. We're going to be the next voice, we're the next change. We have to be here to stand together and stay united right now," said another student.

Friday's walk-out was just one of many that took place around the country, including one in the nation's capitol.

The demonstrations fall on the 19th anniversary of the Columbine shooting.

Twelve students and a teacher were killed when two students went on a killing spree inside their high school before committing suicide.