Mock Election Shows Importance of Youth Voices
On Tuesday, November 2nd, we celebrated Election Day by hosting our very own Mock Election in the office. Leading up to the event, our Achievers learned the importance of voting, how to find their district, and much more. Each cohort (Elementary and Adolescent) was given civic engagement activities to complete before Election Day in order to win a gift card. The activities were centered around our current politicians, learning about the various political positions, and learning about the history of voting. We also had our Achievers vote on non-political topics to get them familiar with the process.
On Election Day, our Achievers came into the office to vote for who they would like to see in office using an unofficial ballot with all of the Mayoral and City Councilor candidates listed as well as the three ballot questions. Before they voted, they had to complete a series of activities to learn even more about making their voices heard. One of our success markers for our graduates is their involvement and civic engagement with our community so it is important for them to understand what that entails.
Our Elementary youth learned that their voices matter and how voting is one way to get their opinions heard. They also read a poem about what changes they could make if they were a politician and wrote their own poem in response. Some of the changes included having fewer bullies and making candy count as a vegetable.
Our Adolescent youth learned about the candidates at large, the issues addressed in the ballot questions, and figured out which district they lived in. Our eligible Achievers registered to vote to prepare for future elections.
Once all the activities were completed, Achievers got a cupcake and a prize to celebrate!
Are you registered to vote? Check here.
Learn more about our Achievers and programs at www.friendsboston.org
Email info@friendsboston.org with any questions or comments!
