By Alex Salas
Photos by BHC Merced
Merced, Calif.— Why is it important for Merced to have a youth council? The answer is because it gives the youth of Merced a way for their voice to be heard.
Adults don’t always want to hear what youth have to say. The Youth Council is a place where the needs and concerns of Merced’s youth can be addressed.
Too many times I’ve seen adults refuse to listen to what young people in this city have to say. This is unacceptable.
The youth of Merced deserve and need opportunities to voice their opinions.
Young people know what is going on in Merced because we live it and we see it everyday. We know what’s best for youth.
Our opinions and ideas can change our city and make a difference for this generation and generations to come.
Investing in the Youth Council means giving youth a platform to be heard. Invest in us and support us, because this is our time and we will rise.
A rally in support of the Youth Council, #LetsRiseTogether, will take place on Tuesday, May 24th from 4:30pm to 6:45pm. Youth will meet at the McNamara Youth Center and march to Bob Hart Square. For more information, you can contact Mark Chalico at 209- 383-4242 or [email protected] .
Alex Salas is a 17 year old high school junior and Youth Reporter at We’Ced. A huge sports enthusiast, he loves to workout and hopes to one day attend the Olympics. He believes he can make change in the community and helps in the efforts to make Merced a better place. Being engaged has helped him positively impact those around him.