- An Alliance For Community Action
- (970) 256-7650
- info@WesternColoradoAlliance.org
Colorado’s 2024 legislative season starts next week
Colorado’s 2024 legislative session kicks off next Wednesday, January 10, with the swearing-in of leadership and legislators. As a result, and in preparation for what we expect to be a very significant legislative session, our Alliance’s legislative committee has doubled its size this year with representation from all three affiliate groups (Western Colorado Alliance in Mesa County, Uncompahgre Valley Alliance, and the brand new Western Colorado Alliance in Garfield County) as well as our regional issue teams.
We’re thrilled to have Kenya Contreras on board with us this year as our Legislative Intern! You may recognize Kenya as a former West Slope Youth Voice (WSYV) intern, who helped champion the need for school-based health centers in local high schools.
Last year, Kenya was a participant in our West Slope Youth Voice Lobby Trip, and as she settles into her work as our new intern, the WSYV students are preparing for this year’s trip, which is scheduled for January 28-30. This is an amazing annual opportunity for high school students to learn about the political process through direct interaction with lawmakers and leaders. If you are or know a student who might enjoy this opportunity, please reach out to Tyler McDermott at tyler@westerncoloradoalliance.org.
Our Alliance will also be offering our People’s Lobby Trip, an all-ages lobby trip for general Alliance members, later in the session. Stay tuned for dates and details!
Jeriel joined the Western Colorado Alliance staff in February 2017 (back when we were still Western Colorado Congress), but you may remember her as our Canvass Director for the successful Minimum Wage ballot initiative in 2016! In her young career, Jeriel has worked with engaged citizens across Colorado on issues ranging from veterans' affairs, healthcare and women’s rights. Jeriel has called Grand Junction and the Western Slope home for 16 years, and enjoys running, hiking, biking and crafting with her daughter Emma.