Calling all young people! MPP Jessica Bell is inviting all local high school students to participate in the University—Rosedale Member’s Statement Writing Competition. Participants can submit a written statement on a topic they feel passionate about, modelled off of the statements MPPs present in the legislature at Queen’s Park to draw attention to an issue of their choosing. The winner and their family will be invited to Queen's Park to watch as MPP Jessica Bell reads the winning submission in the legislature.
Background
The University—Rosedale Member’s Statement Writing Competition is designed to empower young people and foster youth participation in politics by bringing their voice directly to parliament and speaking about issues through their own words. When the legislature is in session, Members of Provincial Parliament from all parties routinely make 90-second statements on topics of their choosing. This is an opportunity for MPPs to raise awareness for a particular issue, highlight a person, initiative, or event that has made an impact on their community or on the province, or express their opinion of a specific issue.
Eligibility
Students must be in grades 9-12, attending one of the following high schools located in University—Rosedale:
- Branksome Hall
- Central Technical School
- Harbord Collegiate Institute/ Bloor Collegiate
- Heydon Park Secondary School
- Rosedale Heights School of the Arts
- Royal St. George's College
- St. Joseph's College School
- Subway Academy II
- The Bickford Centre
- West End Alternative School
- Central Toronto Academy
Submission and Deadline
- Statement must be 60 seconds when read aloud (approximately 140 words)
- Participants must email a PDF copy of their statement and a completed participation form to [email protected] with the subject line: Member’s Statement Writing Competition
- DEADLINE: December 1
- DOWNLOAD PARTICIPATION FORM HERE
The winning submission will be read in the legislature on December 12, 2024.