Youth members of the Westchester County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. traveled to Albany alongside thier parents to participate in the NYSBPHA Legislative Caucus Weekend. Approximately 40 young people ages 9-17 and 20 adults gained firsthand insight into civic engagement and the legislative process as part of the chapter’s Civic–Legislative focus area.
During the visit, the youth met with Majority Senate Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Senator Jamaal Bailey, Assembly Member Gary Pretlow, Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard, and County Executive Kenneth W. Jenkins to discuss how policy decisions impact communities of color in Westchester County.
They advocated for stronger legislation to address the rise of illegal pop-up smoke shops, which disproportionately affect communities of color and heard from Senator Landon C. Dais, who shared insights on how early civic engagement can lead to impactful public service.
Event Impact and Outcome
During the weekend, the Jacks and Jills participated in the Youth Leadership Summit sponsored by the I Will Graduate Organization, strengthening their leadership and civic engagement skills. Additionally, they had the opportunity to meet Governor Kathy Hochul, further deepening their understanding of state leadership.
Following Caucus Weekend, they participated in a meeting with Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard and representatives from the New York State Office of Cannabis Management to continue discussions about the negative impact illegal smoke shops has on youth in communities of color, specifically near the schools and parks.
As part of the ongoing efforts, they launched a petition calling for tighter legislation around illegal smoke shops, securing more than 200 signatures to date and submitted several campaign letters to elected officials to amplify their message.
In addition, the chapter created an original song titled “Power Has No Age: Big Impact. Real Change.” to encourage young people to get involved and advocate for issues that are important in their communities.
Through initiatives like this Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Westchester County Chapter, continues to empower young people with the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills necessary to become informed advocates and future community leaders.
Thank you to Senator Jamal Bailey, Senator Nathalia Fernandez, Senator Shelley Meyer, and Assemblyman J. Gary Pretlow for your support.
Do you want to join this mission of Big Impact. Real Change.? Follow Jack and Jill Westchester Teens on Instagram to learn more about the initiative and how to support the petition.
