[JSR] The Power of a Mock Government

The first conference of the season with 3500+ delegates from all over California [Source: Kristen Sung]

The Senate Chambers in Californias Capitol Building where we got to debate bills and eventually pass on to our Youth Governor [Source: Kristen Sung]

Youth and Government, a California YMCA program of a mock state legislature, not only teaches high schoolers about parliamentary procedure, but also shapes the future leaders of our world. This program is much more than a fun club; Youth and Government provides one of the best platforms to get involved in student leadership, interact with students from all throughout California, and learn how to grow your political standings.

Kristen Sung Grade 12 Maranatha High School

Weekly meetings consist of constantly meeting new people and debating current issues of our world today. In these debates, one is able to further their opinion and vocally address the issues that are important to our society. In these weekly debates, I have grown to further my passion for social justice and strengthen my ability to argue and address the problems I feel strongly about. I have also gained new perspectives from the variety of people around me, along with a deeper understanding of the structure of government and politics.

This program offers many in-depth learning opportunities, like debating in the specific style and writing a bill. It is truly an experience that one can only gain outside of class, as this is not from a textbook, but the students are actively running and learning through doing. As a student, it is refreshing to be treated as adults and run through a mock government.
These meetings are also a major social event for many people, as this is a great opportunity to meet peers that care about government as much as you do. It is great to meet so many people like and unlike yourself, and this only expands your worldview and understanding. While this program is an incredible educational opportunity, one also makes lifelong friendships and is able to meet mentors and peers alike that are crucial in shaping one’s highschool experience.

Beyond the weekly meetings, delegates take three trips a year to Fresno and Sacramento, where all Y&G delegates across the state are able to come together and share and discuss all our ideas. This is one of the most fulfilling aspects of the program, as this is where our ideas come into action. With the 3,500+ students gathered in a conference room, we are able to truly ‘Be the Change.’ I have been blessed with the privilege to debate in the actual Senate Chambers in the Capitol Building in Sacramento, where we passed bills and contributed as members wanting to enact change.

Youth and Government builds character and is a great way to practice leadership. I would encourage every high schooler to get involved in a program that prepares us to be leaders for our future.