Tucson Teen Town Hall welcomes 100 students to engage officials and agencies on local issues

In its thirtieth year, this occasion provides a platform for students to discuss issues of mental health, substance misuse, education inequity, and climate change in the backdrop of a U.S. election that affect each.

Tucson, AZ — On November 13, 2024, the Pima College Access Network, of the Metro Education Commission (MEC) of the City of Tucson and Pima County, had the privilege of welcoming 100 high school students from across Pima County to the historic Pima County Courthouse for the 30th Teen Town Hall, presented by Vantage West Credit Union. This annual event provided a dynamic platform for young people to engage with community leaders, officials, and educational institutions, discussing issues that directly impact their lives, and exploring how to take part in addressing them in their futures.

Held in the wake of the recent U.S. elections, the Teen Town Hall emphasized the importance of amplifying young voices during a pivotal time for policy and community action. Students participated in dialogue circles, facilitated by the Center for Community Mediation and Facilitation, focused on Mental Health, Substance Misuse, Climate Change, and Educational Inequity and Access. These discussions allowed them to share personal experiences, voice concerns, and propose actionable solutions to subject experts from community agencies and local government, fostering a sense of empowerment and responsibility.

The event commenced with welcoming remarks from Rocque Perez, Executive Director of MEC, who highlighted the critical role of youth engagement in shaping community policies. "My academic and professional journey began with this very event in my own Senior year of high school," said Perez, "Like I did then, you have an opportunity to build upon your journey of service, not only listening throughout the day, but to take part in conversations that will inform decision making processes and engagement in favor of yourself, your peers, and families into the future." Keysha Webb, Senior Vice President of Market Development at Vantage West Credit Union, Tucson Councilmember Lane Santa Cruz, Ph.D., Pima County Attorney Laura Conover, and a special video message from Governor Katie Hobbs also addressed the students, offering words of support and encouragement for their journeys in learning and public service. "As Governor, I know that many of the decisions I make affect people not just today, but for years to come," said Governor Hobbs, "Your voices are more powerful than you can imagine. Your unique understanding of the world around us and unbridled hope for a brighter future, brings a refreshing and much needed perspective to the decison-making table."