A Day of Civic Engagement with Delgado and Student Elections

May 29th was a unique opportunity for RHS students to get involved in government.

In her introduction of Congressman Antonio Delgado, Student Council President Reagan Schweppe emphasized the importance of becoming informed, engaged citizens in “a diverse and divided” district by  participating in discussions and dialogue with our representatives.

Delgado was a strong, charismatic speaker.  Approaching the opportunity to speak in a rational, non-partisan way, he answered students’ questions thoughtfully and connected with the students.  He spoke in depth on topics ranging from abortion to climate change, and he explained how his work on several committees might help to resolve issues like the opioid crisis and further the interests of small business owners and farmers,.

His statements overall expressed his commitment to his constituents and his willingness to take direction from the public.  Having hosted 13 town hall meetings all over the district, he emphasized his efforts to understood his district and the needs of the people.

Delgado’s Q & A was followed by student council and class officer campaign speeches.  Although few in number, candidates were well-spoken, confident, and they got their realistic goals across to their audiences.

Election results will be published in the near future.

In the mean time, the Rhinebeck Reality staff encourages all students to SPEAK UP!

We are the future, as scary as that is, and we have to be engaged to make it a time we are proud to live in.

So talk to older generations, learn how our democracy works, write to your representatives, watch the news, or, better yet, read the newspaper (ours included)!