MILWAUKEE, WI – Last night, the Milwaukee County Youth Commission (”Youth Commission”) held its first meeting of 2023, ushering in a new era of youth civic engagement in Milwaukee County. Last year, County Executive David Crowley and Board Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson co-authored a resolution to re-establish the Youth Commission.
“As an alumnus of the previous Milwaukee County Youth Commission, I couldn’t be more thrilled to see some of the best and brightest young people stepping up to lead and make change in their community,” said County Executive David Crowley. “Too often the needs of our youth are overlooked, their problems don’t get addressed, and as they grow into adulthood they don’t prioritize engaging in civic activity. We want to break that cycle of neglect by empowering youth to promote a more just and equitable society.”
The Youth Commission consists of 20 members, age 14 to 18, who reside in Milwaukee County and attend high school. The Commission meets monthly, except for August. One member represents each of the 18 supervisory districts and two members serve as co-chairs. Commissioners are appointed to one or two-year terms.
“As an educator, I understand the importance of giving young people the opportunity to build their skills and empower them to effect change. I’m excited to see these young leaders take a real seat at the table to shape policies and programs that impact their day-to-day lives,” said Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson. “The Youth Commission stands to make decision-making more inclusive and more representative of our entire community’s needs.”
Since 2020, Milwaukee County has moved forward with implementing a strategic plan to achieve racial equity. The Youth Commission works to further advance one of the plan’s strategic goals of “Creating Intentional Inclusion” by creating and nurturing an inclusive culture across the County.
“Joining the Milwaukee County Youth Commission is an incredible privilege, and I am honored to have the opportunity to represent my peers,” said Commission Co-Chair Mia Moore. “I am excited to use this platform to actively participate in local government and amplify the voices of young people in the community. I look forward to working with fellow Commission members to effect change and make a positive impact in Milwaukee County.”
The Youth Commission was created to serve as a representative body for youth in Milwaukee County government. The Commission will work in partnership with the County Board Chairwoman and the County Executive to make advisory recommendations about policy and budgetary decisions to the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, and to advance the County’s mission of achieving racial equity.
“Milwaukee County’s youth possess a wealth of potential. We are scholars, athletes, servant leaders, advocates, and change agents; we are not only the future, but we are the present of Milwaukee County,” said Commission Co-Chair Aaron Lee. “In my role, I hope to highlight the successes of our youth in the county, and ensure we have equitable access to opportunity.”
More information about the Youth Commission, including a full list of members, can be found at https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Youth-Commission. Currently, vacancies exist for youth representatives in Districts 8 and 16. Eligible residents are encouraged to apply on the Youth Commission website.
