Young elected officials join together to engage their generation
The MassINC Associate Board hosted a forum on Wednesday for young politicians to come together and discuss their successes and struggles before an audience of about 90 people at Ned Devine’s Irish Pub in Boston. The forum was designed to connect geographically diverse young leaders for the purpose of engaging a larger audience in the political process.
The event featured a keynote address by At-large Boston City Councilor Ayanna Pressley, who then joined Lynn City Councilor Brendan Crighton, Lowell City Councilor Franky Descoteaux, Representative Todd Smola, and at-large Brockton City Councilor Jass Stewart for a panel discussion. A welcome address was given by Tito Jackson, former Boston City Council candidate and current political director of the Deval Patrick campaign.
The discussion focused on the candidates’ obstacles during their campaigns, their experiences as a newcomer in an insiders’ world, and ways in which they have engaged people of their generation in politics.
“This event was just the first step in a broader effort to involve young people in their communities, which we believe will affect real change in the future political landscape,” said Aimee Ward, director of finance and operations at MassINC and founder of the Associate Board. “These young elected officials are a real inspiration for all of us to become more proactive in public policy issues that affect our generation.”
About the MassINC Associate Board – The Board evolved from MassINC’s successful RealTalk program, and will build and expand upon the theme of engagement among young people in the Commonwealth. The MassINC Associate Board’s mission is to build a new generation of civically engaged leaders for the Commonwealth and the nation. Board members serve as advisors to MassINC’s research, journalism and civic event programs.
About MassINC – MassINC is an independent think tank using non-partisan research, civic journalism and public forums to stimulate debate and shape public policy. Our mission is to promote a public agenda for the middle class and to help all citizens achieve the American dream.
