Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
REMARKS
Council Member Stevens advocates for youth representation on city youth board
0:33:17
ยท
104 sec
Council Member Althea V. Stevens delivers remarks in support of Intro 794, a bill that would require youth representation on the New York City youth board. She emphasizes the importance of including young people in decision-making processes that affect their lives and urges her colleagues to vote in favor of the legislation.
- The bill mandates that at least three members of the board be between ages 16 and 24.
- Stevens argues that policies and programs for youth cannot be truly effective without their input.
- As chair of children and youth, Stevens sees this as a critical step towards creating a more inclusive and forward-thinking city.
Althea V. Stevens
0:33:17
Today, we take a critical a critical step forward by voting on the passage of bill intro seven nine four, which would require the New York City charter to formally establish a youth board.
0:33:25
This legislation mandates the appointment and recommendation board members prioritize individual that demonstrate experience in youth wealth, youth development.
0:33:35
Most importantly, it ensures that at least three members of the board are between the ages of 16 and 24 giving young people direct voice in shaping the policies that affect their lives.
0:33:45
For far too often, decisions about young people are made without youth in the room.
0:33:48
I've seen this firsthand throughout my years in youth development and even more upon entering city council.
0:33:54
Policies, program, and budget aimed at people cannot be truly affected if they are not crafted without their input.
0:34:01
If we are serious about investing in next generation, we must do more by just talking about their future.
0:34:07
We must include them in shaping it.
0:34:08
Their voices are not just unviable, they are essential to building a more just and equitable forward thinking city.
0:34:16
As as representatives, we are responsible not just to lead, but to create a system that uplifts and empower those who will one day take our place, perhaps sooner than we think.
0:34:26
Ensuring youth representation is not just the right thing to do, it is necessary for a stronger and more inclusive New York.
0:34:33
As chair of children and youth, I am proud to champion this effort alongside my colleagues.
0:34:38
Our commitment to up young New Yorkers will build a a gap between city leadership and the voices that need to be heard, ensuring that every decision made truly reflects all the needs of our residents.
0:34:50
Let's stand together to make this clear.
0:34:52
New York City, deserve a seat at the table today, tomorrow, and always.
0:34:56
Thank you.
0:34:56
And I urge all, I encourage all my colleagues to vote aye.
0:35:00
Thank you.