NextGen Politics empowers youth civic engagement in Cerritos through policy education

The City Council meeting held on July 10, 2025, in Cerritos, California, focused on enhancing civic engagement among youth and improving local governance. The meeting began with a presentation from the California chapter of NextGen Politics, a youth-led grassroots organization dedicated to empowering young people through civic education.

The policy director of NextGen Politics emphasized the organization's mission to make government more accessible to youth. They aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate policy at local, state, and federal levels. The director highlighted the importance of starting this education at the community level, particularly in cities and schools, where the impact can be most immediate.

Key initiatives discussed included workshops, student-led forums, and training sessions on public comment. These programs are designed to help students understand how policy is created and how they can influence it. The director noted that topics such as school safety resolutions and citywide youth initiatives are critical areas where student engagement can lead to meaningful change.

The organization expressed a strong belief in the potential of Cerritos to connect local governments with the next generation of leaders. By providing opportunities for students to observe and participate in civic processes, NextGen Politics aims to cultivate policy literacy and a commitment to public service among youth.

The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration between city leaders and youth organizations to ensure that public institutions remain accessible and responsive to the needs of young people. The overarching goal is to empower the next generation to be informed, engaged, and active participants in their communities.