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Photo courtesy City of Richmond
Sparking the flame of community engagement
Published 2:01 PDT, Thu April 14, 2022
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Everyone needs a little inspiration.
Throughout our lives, situations and opportunities arise that can shape and influence our decisions and the paths we take. It may be an event or a chance meeting with someone. It may be a longer interaction with a teacher, coach or family member.
Back in high school, I had an interest in government and the process of democracy. I was fortunate to be able to participate in the Richmond Youth Council. Sitting in then-Mayor Gil Blair’s chair with the weighty binder holding the Council Agenda in front of me, I had the opportunity to learn about the topics that Council voted on and the procedures for the meeting itself. I experienced democracy from a different perspective and it had a profound influence on my life.
When a group of passionate students presented to Council last summer requesting the re-establishment of a student council, it brought back memories of my time as student at McNair Secondary here in Richmond. They wanted a chance to learn and try out the workings of local government. Along with my fellow Councillors, I supported revamping and rekindling the earlier Richmond Youth Council program. The enthusiasm and energy of these students alone reinforced how valuable such a program would be.
The City’s third Youth Civic Engagement Program gets underway this month, running until June 9. This free eight-week program will introduce 20 youth between the ages of 15-20 to the workings of our City and the governance process of Council. They will get to hear directly from the Mayor about his experiences on City Council, and present to a mock Council so they can experience the democratic process of debate and decision-making in an environment that mirrors the reality of chambers.
Council meetings can sometimes be daunting and confusing. However, the proceedings and protocols reflect processes put in place to maintain good and fair government. One of Council’s strategic goals is to have an engaged and informed community, and encouraging people to participate in local decision-making is a shining example of democracy at work.
What these young members of our community learn and take away may influence their future decisions and inspire them to become leaders of tomorrow. Some may take a greater interest in politics. Others may choose careers in local government. Either way, their experience will inspire them in different ways and I encourage everyone to do what they can to enrich our already diverse and dynamic community here in Richmond.
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