What is Youth and Government?

By: Abigail Sullivan

Photo courtesy of Ryan Stranz

I joined Youth and Government (also known as YaG) when Emily Daponta told me about a program that would allow me to get my photo taken and dress up nicely in the Statehouse. I had never heard of it before, but it sounded fun!

I walked into the Malden YMCA clueless as to what was in store for me. I met the one and only Karen Gately, who is the adviser for the Malden Delegation. After small talk and group games, I became close to other high school students who also were interested in current events and how public service operates in Massachusetts.

Eventually we were all able to stay at Conference- a three day business casual extravaganza. I was a member of the press meaning I got to set up campaigns, take photos, make a big slide show, and even edit a corny video. I got to report on what legislative and judicial delegates were trying to push for in their bills and court cases. I learned about what lobbyists do, what an emergency constitutional hearing is, how a committee works, and how delegates run a campaign.

If you’re interested in the program, feel free to talk to Emily Daponta, Dante Goss, Kevin Chau or Abigail Sullivan about joining!