By Laura Hughes, VOX Coordinator for WWU.
At the Capitol July 15th-17th, 200 youth volunteers joined affiliates
nationwide for Planned Parenthood’s annual Policy & Organizing
Summit. Representatives from Mt. Baker’s VOX (Voices for Planned
Parenthood) used the summit as an opportunity to network with other
youth leaders around the country, take workshops, and most importantly,
lobby at the Capitol for Health Care reform.
Planned Parenthood’s Lobby Day at the Capitol included 250 meetings
with legislators to articulate our nation’s need for reform. As a young
lobbyist and advocate for equal, affordable access to health care, it
was thrilling to talk on a personal level with Washington State Senator
Maria Cantwell to tell her why reproductive health care is something
everyone needs. Just as powerful as knowing my own voice was heard, it
was inspiring to see the other youth representatives exercising our
right to be a visible, vocal presence in our Capitol, and to know we
made an impact!
Stephanie Kountouros, Mt. Baker’s Public Policy Coordonator, works with
the youth, deciding what to say for a meeting with Congressman Rick
Larsen.
A hot day lobbying at the Capitol!
Real reform includes women’s health care!
Speaking with Cecile Richards: the highlight of my day!
All the Planned Parenthood staff and representatives gathered on the steps of the Capitol for pictures after a hard day’s work!
Representing Mt. Baker’s VOX were Laura Hughes and Michael Lang, proud
and happy to be a part of the Summit! The average age of this year’s
conference was 25!
Thanks to Laura and Stephanie and all the MBPP representatives! You guys are amazing.