On Tuesday, November 11, students in the Global Leadership Program gathered in the EHS/CTE library for a discussion with local legislators.
Martine Larocque Gulick is a democratic senator representing the Chittenden-Central district which includes Burlington, Winooski, Essex Junction City, Essex Town and some of Colchester. She was joined by Representative Leonora Dodge, also a democrat, who serves Essex in Chittenden-23.
Gulick and Dodge have connections to EHS. Gulick taught French, On-The-Path, and worked as a librarian, while Dodge’s two kids recently graduated. Both felt it was important to return to EHS and speak with the next generation of leaders.
“Working at EHS and CTE was the highlight of my career,” Gulick said. “I loved working here, and I love coming back. Talking to future leaders is so important. Student voice and youth voice is missing in a lot of the work we are doing at the state, local, and federal level. We need to hear from students more than we do.”
The discussion centered on some of the major issues facing Vermonters, including immigration, housing, and education.
Gulick and Dodge touched on the housing discrimination immigrants are dealing with, explaining how Vermont’s economy and landscape rely on immigrant workers. Dodge highlighted two recent pieces of legislation she worked on: S.127, which changed state law to protect immigrants from discrimination in housing, and S.191, which expands access to higher education by granting in-state tuition and state financial aid regardless of migratory status.
Gulick also noted her work on the Office of New Americans bill, which creates a study committee to assess how Vermont can best support new Americans.
Additionally, there was talk on how to have a discussion with people of differing opinions. Students brought up how it’s important to acknowledge where the other person is coming from, and Dodge spoke on how violence is never the answer.
“The goal for all of us is to use persuasion, not violence,” she said. “It’s becoming trendy for young people to say we need a revolution, and we can’t romanticize that. Be courageous and brave, and choose the more challenging path of persuasion.”
Both legislators encouraged students to stay engaged beyond the event.
“Engage in your communities at the local, state, and federal level,” Gulick said. “Build relationships with those who represent you. I want more youth representation. Lean into whatever brings you joy and interest. Don’t worry about checking all the boxes, many of us have taken various routes. Build your critical thinking skills.”
The democratic legislators also asked the students what ideas they have on dealing with ICE in Vermont. Many brought up the fact that wearing masks adds an unnecessary layer of fear, as well as the excessive force used by agents across the country.
The visit closed with a clear call to action: for students to stay engaged, ask questions, and use their voices. As Vermont continues to navigate challenges around immigration, housing, and education, legislators say young leaders will play a critical role in shaping what comes next.
