September Newsletter Message
Aloha,
In November of 2020, Oʻahu voters overwhelmingly supported a landmark decision to create the Honolulu Youth Commission, giving voice to the concerns, ideas and aspirations of our young people across Oʻahu. More than 200,000 voters supported a City Charter amendment which I authored because I felt strongly, as I do today, that our youth deserve a chance to give substantive input into the decisions we make that will affect their future.
Last month, I joined Mayor Blangiardi in swearing in the newest cohort of dedicated youth who will “…advise the council and mayor on the effects of policies, needs, assessments, priorities, programs and budgets concerning the children and youth of the city. The commission shall also express the policy priorities of the children and youth of the city. The commission shall respond to requests for comment and recommendation on matters referred to the commission by the council, the mayor, and any officers, agencies including semi-autonomous agencies, and executive and legislative branch advisory committees of the city.”
That is a heavy mandate, and a strong kuleana. But purposefully so.
The decisions we make at the City Council, jointly approved and executed by the Administration, don’t just affect us today. They will help shape the Honolulu that many future generations will inherit. That’s why it’s so important to me that young people have a seat at the table and an opportunity to be part of the policymaking process - their process.
Former Youth Commission Chair Asa Shimizu set a great example. He helped lead a youth-driven recycling resolution that ultimately received unanimous support from the City Council, and helped set policy that protects our parks and greatly contributes to our island’s sustainability. In welcoming our district’s newest commissioner Tyler Shimozono, I didn’t suggest issues or policies to tackle, nor give him any hints on legislative direction. Instead I encouraged him to be creative, motivated, participative and fiercely curious in pursuit of the things he’s most passionate about.
That is what I hope all of our newest commissioners will get to experience first-hand: the kuleana to serve, the space to contribute, and the opportunity to lead.
To our Youth Commission: you have the opportunity to learn firsthand how City government works, engage with City departments and the legislative process, connect with communities across Oʻahu, and advocate for issues that matter to future generations. Don’t underestimate the importance of your voice. I’m excited to see the ideas, perspectives, and energy you’ll bring to the Youth Commission, and to the residents of Oʻahu and beyond. I know you’ll all do great.
Congratulations and mahalo for choosing to serve our great city.
With aloha,
Tommy
