We were honored. Yes, only about 50 people were there at any one minute, maybe 70 or so total with those who came and went during the 70+ minutes of the panel.
We were honored. Yes, only about 50 people were there at any one minute, maybe 70 or so total with those who came and went during the 70+ minutes of the panel.
There were several other good panels at the same time, 10:30 on Friday morning. Also, that was the only time the organizers could schedule former Alabama Governor Don Siegleman.
I am talking about this: the panel on poliically active youth
The first minute or so of sound is missing (I will explain that and more below the fold).
I am going to suggest that, even though it will take more than an hour to watch panel, you consider recommending this diary. Let me explain that, and more, below.
This was an outstanding session. I have led three panels at the two Yearlykos conventions, and while they were good, this puts them in the shade. Also, this was a very important topic, and I share the description on the Netroots Nation node at which the video is linked:
From the third annual (2008) gathering of the progressive netroots live at Netroots Nation in Austin, TX. FRI, 07/18/2008 - 10:30AM, Room 19 This discussion includes three politically active high school students who will share their experiences, perceptions and perspectives about their own participation, with suggestions of how to better take advantage of the talents and interests of young people in the political and civic processes of our nation. They will also discuss the relevance or lack of relevance of the civic education available to them and most American teenagers. PANELISTS: Thomas Senecal, Kenton Ngo, Kenneth Bernstein, Mica Willis
Eventually C=Span will be broadcasting their taping. As of Saturday it had not yet been scheduled. When it is, I will try to let people know. Then you will be able to hear the minute of sound missing from the beginning of this video. Basically I told people my name but also said this what not about me, but about the three young people, that we would take some time to set a context by me questioning them, but then leave as much time as possible for audience questions.
Thomas and Mica (prounounced "Meesha") were my students in AP Government this past year, Kenton is someone I know from Virginia blogging and politics. These are very articulate young people, whose insight is worth experiencing. And while they are all three exceptional, they illustrate how much more we might benefit if we learn to listen to and involve our young people, even years before they themselves are eligible to vote.
I think you will find the time to watch the video time well spent.
Take perhaps 5-10 minutes to hear the beginning and you are likely to be quite captivated, and even if you don't have time to watch it all then, you will want to watch the entire hour plus, and perhaps pass the link on to others.
For me this was the high point of NRN. We had a lot of people come talk with us later, throughout the rest of the convention. I watched the video last night. I am pleased with what we did. I hope you will be as well.
Thanks for reading this far. Please watch the video. And please consider making it more visible.
Peace.