Empowering Youth: Lawyers Inspire the Next Generation of Civic Leaders

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (September 12, 2024): Over 160 enthusiastic 5th grade students and their teachers from Franklin Elementary School and Hellyer Elementary School in Santa Clara County joined with 45 judges and attorneys to engage in a fun and interactive civic learning program during CLA’s Annual Meeting and Leadership Conference in San Jose on Friday, September 8th.

Hosted by CLA’s Civic Engagement and Outreach (CEO) Committee, the forward-thinking program is designed to underscore the importance of civic knowledge and civic engagement. Fifth graders learned about the three branches of government, the role of the judicial branch, and what judges and lawyers do. They also practiced critical thinking skills as they learned to apply a fictional law.

“It’s important for the next generation to be civically engaged to ensure that our democracy remains vibrant and strong,” said attorney Jerrilyn Malana, the inaugural CEO committee chair. She has been highly involved in the program’s success. “It’s also important for everyone to understand our Constitution, the freedoms and protections it provides, how government works, the role of our courts, and the rule of law.”

The annual event, now in its fourth year, highlights the importance of bringing students together with community leaders in a positive environment. In planning for the event, CLA worked with the local school district to strategically invite elementary schools in underserved communities to bring educational programs to their students. The hope is that students leave with the knowledge that they are the future and have the power to impact their communities. This year, the students were also asked to participate in an art contest based on the conference’s theme of “Building the Future.” Their creative and colorful artwork was displayed for conference attendees to enjoy.

Throughout the event, the ballroom was filled with lots of energy, lively banter, and many smiles. Volunteering their time, the lawyers and judges found the students to be incredibly bright. “They ask so many intelligent questions,” remarked one attorney. “I think I learned more from them than they did from me,” said another.

The afternoon activity is one of many sponsored by CLA throughout the year to introduce youth to the legal profession as part of its mission to promote excellence, diversity and inclusion in the legal profession, and fairness in access to justice and the rule of law.

Tina L. Bonilla
(916) 202-6290
tina@bonillacommunications.com
www.bonillacommunications.com