74th Youth Legislature Session goes Virtual

Last updated: May 7, 2021, at 8:28 a.m. PT

Originally published: May 3, 2021, at 7:26 p.m. PT

On May 5th, Washington YMCA Youth & Government kicked off the 74th Youth Legislature Session virtually. Delegates from across Washington State are meeting for four days. This year staff and volunteers are able to offer a full legislative session via Zoom. Delegates from 17 delegations are participating in committee debate, floor session, and hope to pass a number of bills to be signed by their Youth Governor, Angelo Celletti of the Tacoma Delegation.

Governor Inslee with students at his sides signing a bill
Photo taken before COVID-19

Governor Inslee kicked off the week with an opening keynote speech and answered questions from the youth delegates. Swearing in was facilitated by Chief Justice Gonzalez and Justice Stephens from the Washington Supreme Court.

This year’s Robert F. Utter Award winner was Lucy Helm. Lucy is a longtime board member, major donor, and past board chair. She recently retired from the YMCA Youth & Government Board of Directors and Starbucks headquarters. Lucy continues to volunteer with the YMCA Youth & Government Mock Trial program and was an attorney rater for this year’s state tournament.

The Closing Joint Session will include a keynote speech from Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck, Executive Director Amber Wetzel, and closing remarks from Youth Governor Celletti. Delegates will be recognized for their outstanding work in each program area as well.

Check our website in the coming weeks for a list of awardees in each program area and the Outstanding Advisor and Outstanding Delegation. Recordings of the opening and closing ceremonies and a number of committee debates and floor sessions can be found at TVW.

Category: Youth Programs