CLARENCE, N.Y. — Students rallied in Clarence Wednesday to send a message to local lawmakers about gun control.

Dozens of students from Clarence High School gathered across the street from Rep. Chris Collins’ office on Wehrle Drive to demand his support for gun control.

Organizers say they wanted to join the nationwide effort by high school students to increase restrictions on assault weapons.

They say Collins’ opposition to gun control was part of the reason they planned the rally.

"You represent us as well, high school students, and we want to feel safe in our school and by making it easier to get an AR-15 or other assault rifles, that won't be the case,” said Clarence High School senior Andy Kowalczyk.

Student organizers hope to have a meeting with Collins to discuss gun control.

A spokesperson for Collins released a statement Wednesday, saying in part:

"The devastating events in Florida were an act of a deranged individual with a long history of behavioral problems, and Congressman Collins is committed to advancing solutions focused on mental health and other options that prevent individuals like this from having the opportunity to carry out these horrific actions."