Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending our first Student Conference of 2010 at the University of Maine at Farmington. I was not sure what to expect but left in the afternoon feeling invigorated and inspired. The Bill of Rights is often taken for granted or misunderstood in this country; and it is essential that young people are given the opportunity to learn about this important document.
The high school students who attended with conference were eager and willing to learn about their rights – ranging from the First and Fourteenth Amendments, to what the Fourth Amendment means in school and on the street. Judging from the thoughtfulness of the students' questions it was clear they had already been thinking about what their Constitutional rights entailed.
I wish that all students in Maine, and around the country for that matter, were given stringent education on their citizenship and their rights. However, knowing that we reach hundreds of young people every year is gratifying. I can only hope that these students will pass on what they have learned to their classmates and to their parents as well.
From here I look forward to the upcoming conferences in Belfast and Portland!