The U.S. Senate just went through one of it’s most embarrassing moments as it failed to pass any new laws on gun regulation following the deadly tragedy that was the Orlando shooting. The ball was dropped so far, that members from both sides of the aisle are working to make up for it by doing the unexpected.

To force House Republicans to pass some form of gun legislation, the House Democrats are being led by Rep. John Lewis D-Ga. in a sit-in in the middle of the chamber floor. Participants are growing to a number of more than 40 as time goes on and sharing their thoughts on the matter via social media. 

“We have been too quiet for too long,” Lewis said, according to Politico. “There comes a time when you have to say something. You have to make a little noise. You have to move your feet. This is the time.”

“How many more mothers? How many more fathers need to shed tears of grief before we do something?” Lewis continued, his voice rising in intensity. “Give us a vote. Let us vote. We came here to do our job. We came here to work.”

Lewis reportedly entered the chamber around noon and made a declaration that he would “occupy” the floor until the vote passed. Republican representatives were apparently shocked and called session into recess, which resulted in the sit-in not being broadcast, with the number of Democrats joining in only growing.

“The House cannot operate without members following the rules of the institution, so the House has recessed subject to the call of the chair,” said AshLee Strong, a spokeswoman for Speaker Paul Ryan.

House Minority Whip Rep. Steny Hoyer, D-Md hopes that this can lead to a marathon recess that will ideally be in place until a vote takes place.

“Our people deserve to know where their representatives stand on this issue, just as they now do with their senators,”  said. “Led by civil rights hero Rep. John Lewis, we will be sitting-in until the House is allowed an opportunity to vote. This is an issue that ought to transcend party — it’s about saving lives and keeping our communities safe.”

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