The White House is hoping a bit of Hollywood star power will help bring the message of gun violence home for the millions of Americans who remain against any sort of reform

Actor Matthew McConaughey delivered both a passionate and emotional tribute during Tuesday’s press briefing, speaking about the children who died in Uvalde, urging lawmakers to take action.

McConaughey says he needed to tell the stories of the children and teachers who perished, to demonstrate the need for immediate action.

The actor grew up in Uvalde, Texas, meaning the Robb Elementary School tragedy strikes very close to home.

He says the U.S. is currently in a window of opportunity the country has never been in before and he believes this is the time when real change CAN happen.

He also spoke about the devastation the families of the Uvalde massacre are currently experiencing.

Earlier in the day, McConaughey held meetings with a number of key lawmakers on Capitol Hill, discussing the possibility of gun reform legislation.

Joining White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, the Academy Award-winning star told reporters he hopes he has made at least some progress during his trip to Washington.

In 20-21, McConaughey publicly considered running for Texas governor, but has ruled out any such political move… for now.