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YMCA youth legislature opens joint session at State Capitol; officers sworn in
Summary
The Washington YMCA Youth Legislature opened its joint session at the State Capitol, swearing in youth officers, presenting the Robert F. Utter award and hearing addresses that urged respectful, issue-focused debate amid warnings about political polarization.
The Washington YMCA Youth Legislature opened its joint session at the Washington State Capitol, where delegates witnessed the swearing in of youth officers, the presentation of the Robert F. Utter award and several speeches urging civil, issue-focused debate.
The session began with ceremonial proceedings — the posting of flags, the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation by House Chaplain Haley Shenafield. A message from Governor Bob Ferguson was read to the delegates welcoming them to the Youth Legislative Session and encouraging civic engagement.
Justice Salvador Mungia administered oaths to newly elected officers. Nia Faisal was sworn in as speaker pro tem, and the chamber welcomed the new Speaker of the House. The new Speaker urged members to treat one another with respect, saying delegates should "debate legislation, not people," and asked members to prioritize fairness and empathy in deliberations.
The program presented the Robert F. Utter award to Judge Robert Lewis. Accepting the honor, Judge Lewis said he was "very humbled to receive this reward" and praised the youth in government program as vital civic education.
Youth Governor Pema Phillips (sworn at the session) delivered the opening address, warning that political polarization has widened and urging delegates to lead by example. Phillips said the work of delegates matters and encouraged members to choose integrity over expediency as they consider potential policy proposals.
State Representative Lisa Parsley of the 22nd Legislative District also addressed delegates, sharing an anecdote about early elected office and urging participants to care for their communities and step up to serve.
Organizers closed the formal business with logistical announcements about session scheduling and delegate conduct. A motion to adjourn the opening joint session was made, seconded and carried by placard vote; the presiding officer declared the opening joint session adjourned.
The session now moves to the program's scheduled committee and floor activities over the coming days.
