The Party at the Capitol is an event that took place in Olympia, WA. It was organized by the Washington Bus and Alianza Advocacy. This program allows high schoolers to research their district legislators about bills that could bring about that change. They advocate for change in their local districts by engaging with their legislators about a bill that will bring about that change. The program helps educate high schoolers about the legislative system at both the state and district levels. It teaches students how they can affect change through lobbying and ensuring their voices are heard.
My personal experience was exciting. I found it interesting and important to learn more about how our local government works. I had to wake up early for the hour-long journey to the Capitol. We took a rented bus from Seattle to Olympia. We joined the Washington Bus organization and other branches of the Alianza network near the Washington State Capitol and campus. We participated in fun activities to get to know each other better, creating an inclusive environment. They provided breakfast, lunch, and snacks. We discussed the overall schedule for the day and talked within our groups about the issues we would address. Then, we broke into groups to meet with our district senator and representatives of the Washington State Legislature. I met Senator Tina Orwall, Representative Gerry Pollet, and Representative Osman Salahuddin. I raised the urgent issue of homelessness in Washington State and proposed House Bill 1263/Senate Bill 5232, which would provide essential needs and housing programs for the homeless. We wrapped up the day with lunch and additional fun activities before the journey back to Seattle. Overall, it was an educational, inspiring, and empowering experience.
In conclusion, this is a great event to learn about the State Legislature that controls the laws that we live by and that affects us. It empowers young people to use their voices to fight for issues by advocating for certain bills to get passed into law.
Sources:
Fikru Adamu – member/in-attendance, journalist & photographer
https://www.washingtonbus.org/party-at-the-capitol-1-15/
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1AKfZP-8ByqScMKH3On13sb-P83DOdD0U
