The IL Legislative Black Caucus sponsors a school from their respective districts to a full day of civic engagement. This year was the 3rd Annual Civic Engagement Youth Day at the Illinois State Capitol. The purpose of the Civic Day is to introduce youth to different issues in the government allowing them to learn about state government and prompt students to become more civically engaged. Civic Day included each school to prepare a presentation about an issue facing state government.
Rep. Evans invited the 8th grade class from Burnham Academy located on 99th & Crandon Ave. to attend. This was their first time attending and the student had to opportunity to experience how state government is operated and what happens while in Springfield.
According to Rep. Evans, “It’s important to provide the opportunities to expose our youth to things such as government and how things work. Our youth are curious, and most never get the opportunity to see beyond their neighbor.”
The principal and staff from Burnham Academy were extremely excited for this opportunity especially for their 8th graders. The entire trip was sponsored; the bus, t-shirts, lunch and snacks.
Rep. Evans took the 8th graders on a tour of the capitol, took them to his office, talked to them about his role as a State Representative, took pictures and did a flipgram video with them.
The 3rd Annual Civic Youth Engagement Day was on Thursday, May 11, 2017.