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Bridging youth and policymakers is at the core of the Centre's work. Diverse representation and policies begin with diverse conversations, and we facilitate intergenerational dialogue multilaterally to guarantee governmental officials on local, state, and national levels have the ability to hear from excluded voices.
The need to bridge youth to elected officials is more critical than ever. Federal officials on both sides of the aisle have proclaimed that they want youth to have seats at the table to contribute to policymaking initiatives. However, we recognise that youth need to begin providing meaningful insight to the decision making process.
Therefore, a primary function of the Centre is to be the bridge from youth to leaders in power. The Centre facilitates, promotes, and engages in dialogue with representatives worldwide to ensure policy is centred around younger voices. From the municipal level in the Americas to the global level, it is critical that governing systems embed a multitude of voices, and conveying dialogue ensures youth can craft, design, and enact solutions on issues for future generations.
Facilitating meaningful dialogue isn't just talking, it's advocating. Challenging the status quo.
Creating Dialogue at the White House
The Centre joined the Office of the Vice President, Office of Public Engagement, and White House Counsel to discuss the federal government's role in fostering civic engagement through voter registration. This open dialogue allowed our team to strategise solutions to national issues, leading to key pieces of legislation championed by our organisation. This dialogue marked the beginning of CVIA's role in connecting youth leaders with those in charge to meaningfully enact change.
Promoting Global Calls for Action
Our global dialogue is not limited to one specific place, person, or entity. We're committed to connecting voices of the youth on an international scale as well, as exemplified by our work with global mechanisms for change. From challenging nations on their policies for youth to discussing solutions on improving the sustainable development of youth, we're committed to making youth dialogue a principle of the international processes.
Facilitating Conversations & Resources with Leaders Nationwide
Calls for change are difficult to have. And regardless of how many youth may want change, many feel discouraged in finding resources to advocate what they truly care about. The role of the Centre has gradually evolved into that of a bridge: we bridge the gap between youth issues and policy by connecting youth with policymakers, and encouraging and setting up events for policymakers to hear the voices of the youth. This way, the Centre ensures it is upholding varying views of the youth by allowing these conversations to take place.
DIALOGUE IN FOCUS
Learn more about the dialogue the Centre hosts, through images. Explore our range of conversations to expand youth engagmeent in government, from the municipalities in Virginia to the U.S. Congress.
Ms. Frederica WILSON, U.S. Congresswoman from Florida
"My generation does not have all the answers, and it is critical for the future of our democracy that we empower our youth and give them the resources they need to raise their voice. It began with [the Centre] building connections, working hard, and involving yourselves even when no one asked you to."