With 30+ attendants the Civic Creation Circle had a great first meeting! We began by developing solutions to civic issue prompts in group, then discussed the clubs missions, programs, and board positions. 

At this meeting, we disucssed out civic issue topic, lowering the voting age, at length -- coming up with potential solutions and ideas for our purpose project! In order to hold an educated discussion, we went over a research slideshow on the issue consdiering the pros and cons as well as case studies and potential solutions, giving everyone the tools needed for a productive conversation. 

The Civic Creation Circle, in partnership with the League of Women Voters, recently hosted a speaker event featuring Melissa Marks, Manager of Mission Impact at the NJ League of Women Voters and a Lehigh University graduate. Students gained insight into civic engagement, advocacy, and the League’s work, while exploring how young people can make a meaningful impact in their communities. Attendees left with a deeper understanding of civic leadership and a renewed sense of inspiration to get involved.

The Civic Creation Circle hosted Carmen Cusido, a Columbia-trained journalist who has written for publications such as CNN, Newsweek, and NPR. She spoke about her educational background, career in journalism, attendance at the Democratic National Convention, and her work at Mikie Sherrill's transition team. Cusido shared the story of her extensive experience in advocacy, politics, and journalism to attendees, as well as answering questions from our members about navigating a career in civics and the mechanics of lowering the voting age.

The CCC hosted representatives Heather Richner and Kimberly Cross of the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice. The NJISJ led the Vote16 movement that successfully lowered the voting age in Newark to 16. The speakers talked about their collaborative work on the legal end of lowering the voting age in Livingston, and how club members can help the cause. Over 20+ members were in attendance, where students learned about the organization itself, how action can be taken to build the movement, and upcoming initiatives. Club members were handed out merch and student interviews were taken.