Salt Lake City Youth Government students advocate for community change and inclusivity

The Salt Lake City Council meeting held on April 15, 2025, featured a significant presentation from the Youth City Government (YCG), highlighting the engagement and contributions of local youth in civic matters. The meeting began with a ceremonial color guard presentation and the Pledge of Allegiance, setting a respectful tone for the discussions that followed.

The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, allowing the meeting to transition smoothly into the main agenda items. A key highlight was the Youth State of the City address, where several YCG students shared their experiences and insights gained throughout the year.

Tomas Cruz Vilbaso, a teen instructor, introduced the students, emphasizing the importance of youth perspectives in policy discussions. The students spoke passionately about their involvement in various initiatives, including the Student Unity Summit aimed at combating hate and bullying in schools. Louise Petterson, a senior, noted the transformative nature of engaging with policymakers and the importance of creating inclusive environments for all youth, particularly in light of recent legislative challenges affecting LGBTQ rights.

Christina Wu raised concerns about public transportation, advocating for improvements to make it more accessible and user-friendly for young people. She highlighted the need for better infrastructure, such as bus shelters, to enhance safety and comfort for first-time riders.

Other students, including Jemedia Terry Busimana and Arianna Bruchon Bridges, shared personal stories of growth and service through YCG, emphasizing the value of community involvement and the power of youth voices in shaping the future. They discussed initiatives like the MLK Day of Service, which raised significant funds for local food banks, and the importance of understanding and participating in the legislative process.

The council members expressed gratitude for the students' contributions and the mentorship provided by YCG staff, recognizing the positive impact these experiences have on the youth and the community. The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and engagement from both the council and the community to foster a welcoming environment for all participants in local governance.