From left: Amelia Bondi, Lena Nelson, Stella Gitchos, Wyatt Lodato Albright and Masie Shaw at the state Capitol.
Five Liberty Bell High School students traveled to the state Capitol last week to urge legislative action on global climate change issues.
This is the second year the Liberty Bell Youth Climate Action Group and the Methow Valley Citizens Council (MVCC) have teamed up for a youth climate action day in Olympia. Attending this year were junior Lena Nelson, and sophomores Amelia Bondi, Wyatt Lodato Albright, Masie Shaw and Stella Gitchos. Nelson also attended last year.
According to an MVCC press release, the students lobbied elected officials on several bills being considered by the Legislature. The Liberty Bell students met with 12th District Reps. Mike Steele and Keith Goehner, and with Sen. Brad Hawkins’ staff.
“Visiting the capital, speaking with representatives, and giving testimony in front of a committee was honestly terrifying, but it is so amazing to have your voice heard and to look your representatives in the eye and tell them to fight for your future,” Gitchos said.
“I think it’s incredible that 15- and 16-year-olds from such a small town have the opportunity to go to the capital and lobby on the climate change crisis, that we are all so passionate about,” Albright said.
“My experience talking to our representatives in Olympia was unforgettable,” Shaw said. “It made me realize that young people can truly make a difference.”
“Having youth involved in the climate change movement is absolutely crucial because it is our futures that will be influenced, our lives that will continue to drastically change,” Nelson said.
Students interested in participating in next year’s youth lobby day or joining the Liberty Bell Youth Climate Action Group can contact Raechel Youngberg, raechel@mvcitizens.org, or call 997-0888.
