LET’S TALK ABOUT: YOUTH VOICE!
The average age in our U.S. Congress is more than 60 years old. More than 13% of the population of our country is between the ages of 10 and 19. There’s also more diversity in race, ethnicity, and gender identity within youth populations. Yet, young people are not represented in neighborhood associations, boards and committees, and municipal leadership.
The issues we address every single day impact youth populations and many times, at disproportionate rates. Youth should have opportunities for civic engagement in their own communities and should be engaged in planning events and activities to get more of their peers involved in shaping their future.
Our campaign is seeking youth ambassadors from neighborhoods across Milwaukie who are interested in issues facing the city and political decision making.
If you would like to find out more about these positions, please contact us!
Youth can also be involved by joining our Discord channel or engaging on Instagram.
Some Ideas I’m Excited About:
Neighborhood Engagement:
Modify bylaws for neighborhood district associations to allow youth to hold positions.
Engage local schools to have youth liaisons who represent neighborhood issues.
Municipal Engagement:
Establish a youth liaison position on City Council.
Include a youth voice column in the monthly Pilot publication and on the City website.
Event Planning:
Involve young people in the planning of local events, especially when identities of youth are a topic of the event.
Youth Organizers:
Engage youth with a diversity of backgrounds and identities in conversation about the future of Milwaukie.
Create a youth council position that works with City Council and connects youth voice with decision making.