Opening Joint Session

Opening Joint Session by Ann Duan (Asst. Editor)

After a wonderful Opening Joint Session, it's finally time for the 74th Youth Legislature to commence. In the next several days, I know that everyone will be caught up in the YAG routine debating, governing, and attending to our responsibilities. However, I believe it is still important for us to reflect on the words of the most honorable, Lucy Helm and Governor Inslee who we were all so fortunate to hear today. 

As Lucy put so concisely, it is a "fractured world" that we live in right now. The events of the past year have, without doubt, proven this to be true, and I believe it is imperative for us, as debaters and politicians, to work towards healing our political climate. In the spirit of understanding and civility, I urge each and every delegate to move forward with the intent of contributing to respectful discussions and expanding your knowledge of the world and our nation. This includes being a good listener, which Inslee proclaimed to be his #1 advice for us. As I interpret his message, being a good listener means that we must consider everyone's opinions-- even those that go against our own, and we must respect and do our best to understand the experience of our peers. 

That being said, I hope each and every one of you has a wonderful session! And to first year yaggies, I promise that you will have the best time and most insightful experiences in the next few years in YAG. Enjoy!