Chicago Youth Mock Convention 2024
This week, a collective of community organizations — Chicago Urban League, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, BOWA Gives, and Mikva Challenge — announced the Chicago Youth Mock Convention, an engaging event designed to educate young people about the intricate process of electing a presidential nominee through the Republican National Convention (RNC) and Democratic National Convention (DNC). The event will take place on August 15, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Kehrein Center for the Arts, located at 5628 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago, IL 60644.
Organized by dedicated community leaders, including Arielle Johnson, CEO of the Business Leadership Council, and supported by the Chicago 2024 Host Committee for the Democratic National Convention, this event will guide participants through the key stages of political conventions.
"Engaging young people in the democratic process is crucial for the future of our city and state," said Chicago 2024 Host Committee Executive Director Christy George. "The Chicago Youth Mock Convention represents a major opportunity to inspire and educate the next generation of leaders. By involving young voices in meaningful discussions about the future of our nation, we are not only empowering them to shape their own futures but also ensuring a vibrant and inclusive democracy for years to come.” Christy George, Executive Director of the Chicago 2024 Host Committee.
From forming party platforms and selecting candidates to engaging in debates and casting delegate votes, students will experience the thrill and importance of the nomination process. The curriculum, provided by Mikva Challenge—a nonprofit organization with a mission to empower youth as active, informed citizens—will offer invaluable insights into the political landscape and the role of civic engagement.
Local businesses are involved as well, Nosa C. Ehimwenman, President BOWA Construction eagerly jumped in to provide food for the event, “BOWA Gives is honored to support the Youth Mock Convention. This event empowers the next generation with a hands-on understanding of the democratic process. Engaging young people fosters informed, active citizens essential for a just and equitable democracy.”
The Youth Mock Convention will include pre-convention activities such as the formation of political parties, an opening ceremony, and educational sessions on the role of media in candidate nominations. Participants will step into the roles of delegates, candidates, and party leaders, navigating the exhilarating journey of nominating the next presidential candidate.
DETAILS
Thursday, August 15, 2024 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Kehrein Center for the Arts
5628 W. Washington Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60644
Youth in grades 7-12 are encouraged to register using the form.
Back-to-school supplies and prizes are still needed for the event. If you would like to donate, please contact us at [email protected].
ABOUT THE HOSTS
Chicago 2024 Host Committee: The Chicago 2024 Host Committee (Development Now for Chicago) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization responsible for fundraising, civic and community engagement, and ensuring individuals and businesses across Illinois have the opportunity to experience the benefits of hosting the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
The Host Committee liaises between the Democratic National Convention Committee, the City of Chicago, and the State of Illinois to create a world-class experience for all convention attendees and residents. The team works to drive lasting social and economic impact across the Chicagoland area. Learn More: https://chicago2024.com/
Chicago Urban League: Established in 1916, the Chicago Urban League works to achieve equity for Black families and communities through social and economic empowerment. We help people find jobs and establish careers, become homeowners, enhance their educational experiences, strengthen their leadership skills, and grow their businesses. As one of the oldest and largest affiliates of the National Urban League, we promote strong, sustainable communities through advocacy, innovation, and collaborative community, corporate and civic relationships. For more information, visit www.ChiUL.org. Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
YWCA Metropolitan Chicago: Founded in 1876, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago is a social enterprise committed to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. As a leading association among a national network of more than 200 YWCAs, YWCA Metropolitan is committed to advancing safety, wellness and belonging; unleashing youth and family potential; and driving economic equity. Among a diverse and broad portfolio of services, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago is a leading provider in the areas of sexual violence and community violence support services, early childhood and childcare provider services, family support services, youth STEM programming, and economic empowerment services. Learn more at www.ywcachicago.org.
YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago: The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is the leader in accessible, inclusive programming for more than 300,000 individuals each year, strengthening community by connecting all people to their purpose, potential, and each other. The YMCA of Metro Chicago is evolving to become a 21st-century social enterprise for the region, through an association of 14 community hubs, 5 overnight camps, and 100 extension sites throughout Chicagoland and the Midwest. Learn more about the Y's locations and programming at www.ymcachicago.org
BOWA Gives: BOWA Gives is the charitable arm of BOWA Construction, located in Chicago. This non-profit is focused on youth outreach and preparing young people for life through sports, education, and experiential learning. BOWA Gives has been involved in various community engagement initiatives, including high school mentorship and career exposure programs in construction. The long-term goal is to support the next generation of productive community members.
BOWA Gives values various approaches to mentoring and aims to provide paths that young people can authentically connect with and feel passionate about. This commitment signifies the organization's dedication to expanding its impact. Even as BOWA Construction expands beyond Illinois, BOWA Gives remains committed to reaching more communities and making a difference in more young people's lives. To learn more: https://bowagives.org/
Mikva Challenge: The mission at Mikva Challenge is to develop youth to be empowered, informed, and active citizens who will promote a just and equitable society. The vision is to, envision a stronger, inclusive democracy that values youth voice. Mikva has two Chapters that serve as model sites and innovation hubs. Partner sites provide Mikva curricula, training, and strategic supports to school districts around the country. Learn More: https://mikvachallenge.org/
Join us as we empower the next generation of leaders and inspire them to become active participants in our democracy. Let's work together to create a just and equitable society through civic education and engagement.
For media inquiries and donations, please contact:
Media & In-Kind Donations: Arielle Johnson - [email protected]
Monetary Donations: https://www.ymcachicago.org/donate