To introduce young women to the workings of state government, the California Federated Republican Women (CFRW) held Advocacy Days where Los Alamitos High School junior, Madisen Swallow joined Rossmoor-Los Alamitos Women Federated Advocacy Chair, Nancy Hathcock in Sacramento on April 8 and 9.
Advocacy Days follows the annual CFRW Spring Board of Directors meeting in the state capitol. Created in 1974, following a suggestion by then-governor Ronald Reagan and other Republican legislators, the program has become a viable force in the legislative process helping to seat many women in political appointments, influence legislations and make the conservative views known throughout Sacramento.
During Advocacy Days, hundreds of CRFW women from throughout California converge on the state capitol to lobby both Republican and Democrat legislators.
Swallow, who serves on Los Alamitos High School student council had personal meetings with her Assemblyman Travis Allen (72nd assembly district) as well as State Senate Minority Whip, Bob Huff (29th assembly district). She asked questions about life in Sacramento, their view of the current legislature and their position on specific bills. An interactive dinner allowed students to network. Assemblywoman Melissa Melendez (67th assembly district), was the keynote speaker who shared her political journey and why she became involved in the California Republican Women Federated. Two workshops were also presented – one on communications and the other on starting a Republican club on high school campuses.
“The Youth Advocacy Program offers conservative students the opportunity to see our California government in action and learn how each person’s voice is important to the process,” said Hathcock. “Moreover, they start thinking about becoming part of the process by being an advocate or even running for office.”
Swallow will share her experience during the May meeting. The Rossmoor-Los Alamitos Republican Women Federated meets once a month at the Courtyard by Marriott. The networking and brunch begins at 9:45 a.m. with the meeting and guest speaker starting at 10:15 a.m. Cost is $20 for members and guests, $17 for associate members/spouses. Reservation deadline is May 15 (late reservations accepted, space permitting). For more information, please contact Susan Short online at sshort2468@aol.com or call her at 562-882-0822 or 562-598-6458.
Meetings are open to women and men who want to work with like-minded individuals to improve the political landscape. In addition to the speaker, members and guests have time to network and socialize.