13 Youth v. Oil members traveled to the state capitol in Sacramento on April 15th to speak at a committee hearing and advocate for strong climate policies that protect our futures. This included making oil companies pay for cleaning up their wells, stronger regulations on datacenters, and a Polluters Pay Climate Superfund.
Here are some reflections for our students:
“Under an administration that has tried all it can to silence youth voices, this trip has made me feel empowered that I can make a change. Having the opportunity to miss school to lobby for a bill that I believe so passionately about is hands down a highlight of my high school experience. I hope I can use the experience gained from this trip in my future career, advocating for BIPOC communities which oftentimes need our assistance most, yet are overlooked.” – 12th grader
“This trip brought Youth v. Oil as a team together. It me at a lot to me to meet with legislators in real life and really be in the capitol.” – Megan N, 7th grader
“This trip meant being an active member in my community. Understanding the effects of Senate and Assembly bills. Using my voice to advocate for a sustainable and equitable future.” – Maya S, 10th grader
“By talking to elected officials from across the aisle I learned the importance of not painting a group of people with a broad brush. Advocating in Sacramento has given me the opportunity to put in motion real change that will have lasting effects on Californians everywhere.” – Diego S, 12th grader
“This trip was truly a magical experience. Not only was I able to bond with the amazing members of YvO and make so many beautiful memories, I learned so much about how the California legislative system worked. I understood how powerful youth voices are in these usually adult dominated decision making spaces, and feel so lucky to have been with a group helping me uplift my voice.” – Taarika S, 10th grader
“This trip was such an amazing experience and I’m so happy I got. I especially enjoyed learning more about how bills go through the California legislature.” – Miles W, 9th grader
“On this trip, I got to learn about legislative procedures and meet with government representatives. I am so grateful that this trip was all paid for and that I got to plan, learn, and bond with students who care about environmental causes as well!” – Lexie H, 12th grader
“This trip was an incredible combination of advocacy and group bonding, which empowered me to build relationships with both elected officials and my fellow activists. The committee hearing taught me about process and negotiations, while the legislative meetings taught me how to communicate effectively to elected officials.” – Sofia C, 11th grader
“Being a part of this once-in-lifetime opportunity has given me the courage to continue to fight for the marginalized people who are most heavily impacted by climate injustice. I am forever in debt to Youth v. Oil for rejuvenating my passion for public policy!” – Carlos L, 11th grader
“This trip allowed me to solidify my position as not only a climate activist, but also as a social advocate for my marginalized community. It’s an opportunity found nowhere else, that allowed me to defend those that can’t defend themselves; to be a voice for the voiceless.” – Maria E, 11th grader
“The Sacramento trip gave me the hope that I needed to keep fighting for what I care for, especially under this administration that has harmed our motivations and dreams.” – Frida V, 12th grader