Inspiring the Next Generation: Our Student Legislative Seminar
From June 1-6, the Institute for Civility proudly led its second Student Legislative Seminar of 2024, featuring enthusiastic students from Palacios and Wharton, TX high schools. Both schools have been valued participants in our program for many years, and this session was no exception in terms of impact and engagement.
Despite the summer heat and the bustling crowds in Washington, D.C., our experience remained as profound and meaningful as ever. The students visited key landmarks, including monuments, memorials, and museums, enriching their understanding of our nation’s history and values. However, sightseeing was not the primary focus of our journey.
This dedicated group of students selected three pivotal issues to explore: access and affordability of healthcare, access and affordability of mental health care, and reproductive rights. In particular, their discussion on reproductive rights centered on the accessibility of contraception. Given their rural backgrounds, the affordability and accessibility of health and mental health care were especially pertinent topics.
Our students were well-prepared with briefings from the Bipartisan Policy Center and the American Public Health Association. Through candid and respectful dialogues, they practiced civility, reached consensus, and presented their findings to two Senate offices and their Representative’s office.
We consistently highlight these seminars because they are crucial to the Institute’s mission of fostering civility in our communities today and for future generations. Working with these extraordinary young individuals is always a privilege, and we hope you find their experiences as inspiring as we do.
To convey the impact of this seminar, we’re sharing excerpts from the students’ heartfelt thank-you letters, written at the conclusion of their trip:
“This trip was insightful and a wonderful learning experience.” – Jadin
Excerpts from Student THANK-YOU NOTES
“I had a really fun time going to see the museums, monuments, and Capitol buildings.” – Jacob
“I was allowed to use public transit, which made me feel more connected to my traveling.” – Estrella
“The skills I developed while on this trip will forever be useful as I go on with my life.” – Isabella
“It helps me realize my opinion matters!” – Isabel
“The trip caused me to come out of my comfort zone and become more confident as a person.” – Alyssa
“After everything I’ve seen and did, I want to come back immediately.” – Anani
“I’ve finally realized what it felt like to get your opinions to higher ranked people of this country.” – Edwin
“If it wasn’t for this trip, I don’t think I would ever visit D.C. This trip has been an eye-opening experience.” – Miracle-Angel
“I want you to understand that I did not let my time nor the funding go in vain.” – LaKev
Special thanks to everyone whose generous support made this incredible experience possible. Institute program’s like this one would not be possible without the support of donors. Learn more about Student Legislative Seminars.
