Whether or not they’re of legal age to vote, our youth are paying close attention to Providence’s future – and to the local elections that shape it. Whoever wins these races (mayoral and gubernatorial) will have a significant say in ensuring that our schools are safe. As such, Youth Leaders feel it imperative that they listen to what students have to say.

Over the last few months, we (as PASS) have been busy sending out questionnaires and getting to know our candidates’ stances on school safety, so as to help the voter body make an informed decision. You can see their responses here.

Then, last night, we marched down to watch the gubernatorial debate and made our presence known. Youth not only got to engage with and learn about the civic process, but met many of the candidates and spoke to them face-to-face about issues that concern them.

We were especially touched by the number of audience members, old and young, that came up to tell us how much they supported our work.

Image 1: Staff and youth from ARISE and PSU watch the gubernatorial debate from the bleachers, holding up our handmade posters. Sitting with us (in the purple shirt, centered) is Bella Noka, Narragansett tribal member and Indigenous rights activist.

Remaining images: Staff and youth from ARISE and PSU march down to John Hope.