Over 100 college, university and high school students gathered at the U.S. Capitol yesterday to meet with congressional leaders about political issues pertaining to young people.
The event was sponsored by Mobilizing America's Youth, a nonprofit organization aimed at promoting political participation among young people, according to Selena Shilad, the group's spokesperson.
"Youth are often underestimated and discounted in politics," said David B. Smith, executive director of Mobilizing America's Youth, in a press release. "Politicians who believe that we don't care and don't vote are in for a serious shock this November when our votes determine the outcome of this election."
The event launched the March Across America campaign, which is scheduled to stop in 15 different cities nationwide to engage people ages 16-30 in the political process, according to the press release.
Many students attending the conference are from area colleges and universities -- including Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Others came from Ohio, Georgia, Massachusetts and New York, Shilad said.
"We had a great turnout," she added.
Participating legislators included Sen. Evan Bayh (D-Ind.), Rep. Adam Putnam (R-Fla.), Rep. Kendrick Meek (D-Fla.), Rep. Tim Ryan (D-Ohio) and Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), according to Shilad.
Congressional leaders shared their personal experiences about involvement in politics.
"Congressmen discussed, based on their experiences, what the most important issues are facing young people," Shilad said. "It was very personal -- they weren't behind the podium or anything."
--Comp. by Natasha Altamirano
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