HSDA Summit 2018: An Experience of a Lifetime
A recap of the four-day long leadership summit in DC
By Nina Faynshtayn
The Progressive Teen Staff Writer
FROM JUNE 24TH TO JUNE 27TH, 2018, 100 high school activists from across the country gathered in Washington, D.C. for the fourth annual premier political conference for students: the High School Democrats of America Summit. As a second year attendee, I was immersed in a rich arena of passionate individuals who shared similar values, yet were not afraid to challenge each other’s opinions. Everyone came to Summit expecting different experiences, but left with new perspectives on the world around them. From having the opportunity to hear from high profile speakers to taking the traditional (and rainy) tour of the monuments to experiencing the Capitol up close, students formed close connections all the while encountering long days full of wonderful activities.
Day 1 — June 24th
Attendees arrived gradually throughout the day. The first cohort of individuals had the opportunity to visit the National Smithsonian Museum of American History, most notably enjoying the First Ladies Gown Collection. In the evening, the introduction to leadership programming began; students were able to learn the significance and impact of personal stories, and exchanged their own amongst one another. Divya Sood of Pennsylvania states “Learning how to construct a personal narrative using the story of self, us, and now changed the way I perceived leadership. I learned that good leading all boils down to knowing when to step in and when to step back. I also discovered the importance of building personal connections with all your team members. These connections, which can be manifested during a one-on-one conversation, can really leverage one’s leadership and approach to goals.” A few stragglers ambled into the room following an instantly iconic Union Station elevator incident (click here to view). Nevertheless, at the end of the day, everyone was secure and comfortable in the halls of Thurston at the George Washington University. Following their pizza dinner, students embarked on the annual monument tour, soaking in the views of the Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, Korea Memorial…and almost making it to the WWII Memorial before being literally soaked by a heavy rainstorm (a surprisingly wonderful opportunity to bond).
Day 2 — June 25th
According to most Summit attendees, day 2 programming was the most intensive but also the most worthwhile. While sitting in the GWU auditorium, the group heard from a variety of notable speakers who touched the hearts of many. The day started out with Greg Shultz, a returning speaker from the year prior, and also the Executive Director of American Possibilities and Former Aide to Vice President Joe Biden. He discussed his impressive political career, and recalled some memorable stories of his time with Joe Biden. During the lunch break, he sat amongst attendees, able to answer any last burning questions.
Some other favorites include Wisdom Cole of the NAACP who discussed organizing skills, as well as Sanaa Abrar of United We Dream who talked about the organization and how youth can get involved. Additionally, attendees received information on organizing and fundraising from the Democratic National Committee, which they will take back to their respective chapters so as to advance the growth and legitimacy of the organization. Toward the end, a panel of climate action and environmental advocacy activists discussed the organizations they are involved in and how youth can make a difference in the ongoing climate battle. Attendees were even given the opportunity to try “bird-dogging,” a tactic used to pressure politicians on specific issues, which many remember to be a thrilling experience. Following dinner, the day concluded on a high note with a presentation from Vote16USA, as well as the featured keynote speaker, Reverend Barry Lynn, previously of Americans United for Separation of Church and State. While the day felt like a crash course on organizing, it was so much more. Everyone was grateful for the amount of information and training they received, knowing they could take back new skills to their local and state chapters.
Day 3 — June 26th
The day started bright and early with the exciting election speeches; students gathered to hear the voices of those running for national executive positions and to vote. However, results would not be revealed until later. Thus, the focus for the remainder of the day would be visiting the Capitol. This trip was an exciting time for all; attendees swiped their metrocards, ready to be impressed by what and who we would see. From Senator Cory Booker to Minority Leader of the House Nancy Pelosi to Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, as well as a plethora of other high profile speakers, students were impressed to hear inspiring words from some of the leading voices of the Democratic Party. Ranen Miao of New Jersey states “Attending Summit for the first time was a life changing experience. Getting to take a photo with my Senator, Cory Booker, and hear the insights and thoughts of some of the most influential Democrats in Congress was an honor. I’m excited to take what I’ve learned and bring it back with me to help flip my district and other seats in NJ blue!” Throughout the day, a variety of awards were given out:
HSDA State Chapter of the Year: Massachusetts High School Democrats
HSDA Local Chapter of the Year: Bellaire High School Democrats
HSDA Member of the Year: Garrett Frye-Mason
Following the speakers, the day ended with a networking reception hosted by the offices at Third Way, in which attendees had the opportunity to speak with and learn about career options from a myriad of experts in fields such as journalism, political advocacy, and lobbying.
The day concluded with a talent show, in which Summiteers showed off a variety of interesting talents: singing, dancing, Icelandic chants, and more.
Election results were revealed later in the evening:
Chair: Jason Lam, New Jersey
Vice Chairwoman: Ariana Smartt, Alabama
Vice Chairman: Talat Aman, Massachusetts
Communications Director: Brennan Leach, Pennsylvania
Programs Director: Haritha Kumar, California
Development Director: Anne Austin, Illinois
Day 4 — June 27th
New connections were built, new places were explored, and most importantly, new friends were made. With the solemn awareness that Summit was almost over, attendees felt a build-up of emotions throughout the last day. Although we couldn’t get to know every single person at Summit, the people we did meet were — in a single word — extraordinary. Our intertwined passions and hopes for a better future strengthened us. Knowing that we share the same values as individuals from across the country gave us a sense of unity that many had not experienced before. The last speaker, Congresswoman Grace Meng, finalized the long lasting message the attendees continuously heard from the mouths of hopeful politicians: we are not just the future, we are the now. With tearful goodbyes and warm hugs, all of us vowed to stay connected, whether it be through future endeavors or social media. We’re all prepared to embark on bigger journeys in the future. I cannot wait to someday vote for everyone that I met.
