MA first state to have a statewide youth council.
On April 24, 2008 I had the pleasure of attending Governor Patrick's statewide youth council executive order signing. About a year ago the Governor visited Dorchester after a youth shooting. He was asked by a youth during this site " Why can't we have a voice in shaping the policy that affects us". That was the spark that lit the fire to start the statewide youth council. Governor Patrick is the first Governor making MA the first state to take a youth council to the state level. The council will meet at least four times per year and the Governor himself plans to attend some of the meetings. He is looking to get 2 youth ages 14-20 from each of the 14 counties of the state.
As a person who served on Boston's Mayors Youth Council many moons ago I know bringing youth advocacy, and youth empowerment to the table will be of value to our state. To see the Mayors of Boston and Quincy;our senators and youth from the UWMBMV footprint standing there with Governor Patrick all saying how important it is to hear the voice of our states future truly validated the work that we do here at UWMBMV. If you know of a youth that you think would be great on this council the application deadline is MAY 30, 2008. Encourage them to have their voice heard!
Thanks for your efforts
I would also love to hear more about your experience, but I would to like to know how your involvement influenced policy and how much your youth voice was taken into account on important issues like youth violence, youth jobs, and more funding for youth programming for Greater Boston. Thanks Lanita for your efforts. Regards, David
I now serve on the Mayor's
I now serve on the Mayor's Youth Council of Boston, and I think that this is a great idea to build on. I think there can be many initial problems like scheduling conflicts and travel issues, but to bring youth together to take on such initiatives will definately benefit MA in the long run. I think the Council should take on one or two big events that can span across the state as budget allows. This is the best way to bring together the youth.
For me, the fact that I can talk in front of important officials like Mayor Menino, Superintendant Johnson, Police Commisioner Davis, and Public Health Commisioner Ferrer and present to them the youth issues that we have identified (with surveys) is amazing. Other community organizations also look to us for ideas and collaboration. It's a great experience, especially when you put more into it.
I would also love to hear
I would also love to hear more about your experience, but I would to like to know how your involvement influenced policy and how much your youth voice was taken into account on important issues like youth violence, youth jobs, and more funding for youth programming for Greater Boston.
I would love to hear more
I would love to hear more about your experience as a memmber of Boston's Mayors Youth Council. Not only the value you and your colleagues added to the community but also how it influenced you and the choices you've made in your life.
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