During the 78th Annual Tennessee 4-H Congress, 4-Hers from across the state had the opportunity to visit the State Capitol where they learned citizenship and leadership skills. The annual event has a longstanding tradition of helping the next generation become well-rounded citizens. Attendees participate in a mock legislative session, visit with their lawmakers, vote on Congress officers and much more.
“Tennessee 4-H Congress is our premier citizenship event, allowing our 4-H members all across the state to receive hands-on experience in government and civic engagement,” said Jamie Harris, interim Tennessee 4-H director. “Those 4-H members become senators and representatives and they actually get to participate in mock legislation.”
While at the capitol, students have the chance to sit in the seats of their lawmakers and vote on bills – a true, hands-on civics lesson. Then, they visit with their lawmakers in their offices, which encourages students to engage in the political process now and hopefully well into their future.
“I think it is really wonderful for youth my age to be able to learn how the government works and how the process of voting for bills and speaking on behalf of them works,” said Marlee Bradford, Lincoln County 4-Her. “It’s also great to see the capitol – it’s beautiful and I really love being able to experience this.”
After their legislative experience, members got a taste of what it’s like to pull the lever in the ballot box – another way this conference prepares and encourages young people to do their civic duty. This election was for new speakers of the House and Senate as well as the Tennessee 4-H Congress Governor. This year’s officers are: Mehak Patel, Franklin County – Speaker of the House; Kaylin Osterhaus, Lincoln County, Speaker of the Senate; and Harrison Crenshaw, Franklin County – Governor.
“I really want to spread the impact 4-H can make,” said Harrison Crenshaw when looking towards his year of service. “Only 13% of grades 4-12 are in 4-H right now, which is about 151,000 students in Tennessee, and I think that number can be higher, so I think we need to work on spreading 4-H around the state more.”
Congress ended with an awards banquet, highlighting members’ projects and speaking contests, as well as adults and organizations who are dedicated to giving back to Tennessee 4-H.
