State Rep. Robin Shackleford recognizes the Youth Bill of Rights

INDIANAPOLIS – Members of the Indiana House today joined State Representative Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis) in recognizing efforts to create a Youth Bill of Rights for the city of Indianapolis.

The effort was the product of The Youth LEADership Summit, a conference geared toward giving Hoosier youth a platform to hear and learn from professionals regarding academics, decision-making, and advocacy.

“More than 200 motivated students came together to take the rights of adolescents to heart and begin the task of developing a Youth Bill of Rights for the city of Indianapolis,” Shackleford said. “This Youth Bill of Rights reflects the values, dreams, and aspirations of area youth.“

The survey results indicated that area youth want to develop sustainable relationships with law enforcement, and establish the rights for students to be treated with respect and as equals.

Hoosier youth also strive to build healthy relationships based on honesty, trust, and communication. They are avid learners and express interest in finding out more about the opportunities and risks of social networking, respecting all cultures and addressing the needs of all people.

“They yearn to acquire the skills, training, and access to help them become our nation’s future leaders and guarantee the right to make mistakes so they can continue to learn and grow,” said Shackleford.

“In addition, the survey results also indicated that the youth want to have the opportunity to study curriculum that is relevant to their life experiences, which includes content exploring the struggle of oppressed Hoosiers and the right to learn about basic money management and a good quality of life,” she added.

“It is through efforts like these that our young people can feel that their voices can be heard through civic participation and the legislative process,” Shackleford said. “Their efforts deserve our highest praise.”