The Central Connecticut State University chapter of Turning Point USA hosted an open discussion on traditional American values on Oct. 28.
Featured guests were Republican speakers Joey Catanzaro, a candidate for the Plainfield Board of Education; Republican Alan Colombie, and state Rep. Joe Hoxha.
The event focused on the importance of youth participation in local elections. Local-level elections are not gaining enough attention from the younger generation, such as Gen Z, according to the speakers.
“The more local, the more important it is,” said Hoxha. “It affects you,” Catanzaro added.
Local level elections are currently happening in Connecticut for positions such as the mayor, the board of education and town council members.
Full of encouragement, the speakers urged students to go out and register to vote. By getting involved in their town’s local elections, they contribute to deciding what kinds of policies would affect their school district.
“Policy is what you do once you’re elected to office … politics is how you get elected to office,” said Hoxha.
Questions were welcomed from students and led to conversations about the steps it takes to become a candidate.
The group emphasized the importance of getting involved and volunteering in your town.
“Start small. Speak to your local politicians, whether they are a Democrat or a Republican,” said Hoxha.
Waving signs in the center of town with the politician that you support was described as a great way to meet new people and connect.
“Sign waving shows strength and unity. You get the people that will roll their window down, give you the finger…but if you see that on campus or in life…don’t be afraid…and don’t stoop to their level. The best thing you can do is just be yourself,” said Colombie.
Ian Howe, president of CCSU’s chapter of Turning Point USA, said the turnout and outcome was refreshing.
“It was great hearing from people that actually practice local politics and learning about how you can make a change in your community,” said Howe.
