Pilot program will equip Seattle high school students with skills to drive powerful change through leadership development, policy and advocacy experiences; Applications due January 16
SEATTLE (December 20)— Today, the City of Seattle Office for Civil Rights (SOCR) is announcing the launch of a new Youth Civic Engagement Program (YCEP), designed to equip high school students with knowledge and skills to drive powerful change in their communities. In response to growing requests from youth for leadership and civic engagement opportunities, this new pilot program will provide policy education, advocacy experiences, and mentorship to participating teens. The inaugural cohort will welcome 20 students from across the city to participate in monthly sessions from February to July 2025. Applications are due January 16, 2025.
“The strength of Seattle’s future lies in the passion and potential of our young people. With the launch of the Youth Civic Engagement Program, we are not only investing in the leadership of tomorrow but creating opportunities for our students to connect with their peers, understand our local government, and become advocates for the changes they wish to see,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell. “This program reflects our One Seattle values and commitment to empowering the next generation with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive. I look forward to hearing more of our young people’s ideas, creating space for them to inspire change in our communities, and seeing the impact this program has on their trajectory as people.”
In this program, students will learn how a bill becomes a law, expand their knowledge of the local policy landscape, meet with local elected officials, forge connections amongst peers and young leaders in Seattle, and strengthen advocacy and civic engagement skills around an issue they care deeply about with support from the Seattle Office for Civil Rights.
“Our young people are powerful leaders driving compassionate change we want to see in our world,” said Derrick Wheeler-Smith, Director of the Seattle Office for Civil Rights. “Investing in youth advocacy and civic learning experiences cultivates resiliency, strengthens democracy, and will build our young people up as champions for equity and justice for their communities.”
SOCR’s Youth Civic Engagement Program complements ongoing City initiatives and investments that support youth leadership and well-being including the Seattle Youth Commission, mental health investments, Seattle Mentors Program, and Seattle Youth Employment Program.
How to Apply
All students in grades 9-12 who attend high school within Seattle city limits are eligible to apply. The program is limited to 20 students and the selection process will prioritize applicants who can demonstrate an interest in community engagement, advocacy, a commitment to learning from others, and have little or no prior civic engagement experience. Students can learn more and apply by January 16 at seattle.gov/civilrights/public-participation/ycep.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
Dr. Hajer Al-Faham, Ph.D, Policy Division Director, Seattle Office for Civil Rights
“Every aspect of this program was designed to empower young people to become informed, engaged, and effective civic leaders. It is our belief that the next generation has the potential to shape a more just and vibrant democracy. We are committed to equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead with purpose and passion.”
Ted Howard, Accountability Officer, Seattle Public Schools
“Empowering young voices today shapes the leaders of tomorrow. By engaging in civic action, students learn about the world around them and help create the world they want to see.”
The mission of the Seattle Office for Civil Rights is to provide leadership in upholding civil rights and advance racial equity in the City of Seattle. www.seattle.gov/civilrights
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