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Civic Engagement Education at State Capital
06/20/12
State Capital Visit Provides First-Hand Civic Engagement Education to MYSI Youth
Thursday, May 3, 2012 nine youth from MYSI and nine adults boarded a chartered bus to Springfield, Illinois to see the State Capital and meet with government representatives. It was the first trip to Springfield for seven of the youth, and not surprisingly, a great educational and fun experience for all. As part of a MYSI sponsored fellowship with the Alliance for Children and Families.
Rep. Yarbrough was the first legislator the youth met upon their arrival. She discussed state government, her experience working with President Obama when he was a senator, and expounded upon the importance of voting. The youth were then introduced to several other legislators: and State Reps. Thaddeus M. Jones, Arthur Turner, Rita Mayfield, and Kimberly du Buclet all took time to talk and answer questions.
Youth, Bryan J. was interested in the government process. He said. “I found out how the state doesn’t want to pass the new gun law; and also, what the state is trying to do about the budget cut for Medicare insurance. My favorite part of the trip was getting to meet the State Representatives and see how they operate and stand strong in their jobs and what they are trying to do,”
The youth enjoyed an extensive tour of the capital complex, including the Senate and House galleries, where they learned how a bill is made into law. “My trip was great. I learned a lot I didn’t know. I’ve never been before. I enjoyed it all,” said youth, Sally C.
“It was a joy to watch MYSI youth interact with legislators and see them engaged in learning about what goes on in Springfield. I think the trip was not only a civic engagement educational experience but provided great motivation for future endeavors. Being on the capital campus, seeing young legislators not much older than themselves involved in change and making lives better, offered an expanded perspective on what is possible to achieve as an individual, regardless of life challenges and perceived limitations.” Changing youth’s lives on at a time.