by Veniece Miller, Grand Junction

Few students would label a lobby trip to the state Capitol during spring break as fun, however, I cannot think of a better way to have spent it!

This past March I attended the People’s Lobby Trip* with Western Colorado Congress staff and members. As a novice in all things lobbying, I came with no experience, but a desire to learn from and speak to my elected representatives. As a member of the WCC team, I spoke to legislators about bills in committee, the Senate and the House. Some bill topics included rural broadband, oil and gas reporting, and youth homelessness.

I am 18 years old, and often it feels as if I do not have a voice in this democracy. Grassroots lobbying empowered my fellow students and I to speak out and stand up for policies we were in support of. As students, our experience matters.

I have participated in marches, campaigns, and have made phone calls to elected officials, yet I can say grassroots lobbying with Western Colorado Congress was the most impactful engagement with government I have had. This was democracy in action.

Sitting down with Rep. Marc Catlin face-to-face made the interaction real; catching Rep. McLachlan in the hall was impactful, and running into Rep. Thurlow after session was important. As an institution, it is vital for Western Slope senators and representatives to see Western Colorado Congress as the people behind it. WCC is an organization of community members working to preserve our beautiful Colorado and for progress. Our elected officials cannot forget that.

Having a beautiful home to stay in, great food, and brilliant company made this experience even better! An enormous thanks to Western Colorado Congress for working towards the interests of Western Colorado and making this important trip possible!

[Every spring, Western Colorado Congress sponsors a People’s Lobby Trip to Denver to give folks a chance to experience the state legislature first-hand. Read more about WCC and this year’s legislature here.]