Holy Cross and Worcester High School Students Wear Legislators' Hats For a Day: Legislative Simulation Planned to Combat Voter Apathy Among Nation's Youth

WORCESTER, Mass. – Voter apathy and disenchantment with American political institutions have become significant problems in our political system. In fact, the American Congress, arguably the most important legislative body in the world, continues to receive low marks in public opinion polling for legitimacy and competence.

In response to this, Holy Cross political science students, in cooperation with South High School and Doherty Memorial High School, will host a legislative simulation on Saturday, April 3, beginning at 11 a.m. in Stein 212.

The goal of the simulation is to allow college and high school students to personally experience the legislative process and thereby gain a greater appreciation for the skill and knowledge that is required to introduce bills and transform them into laws.

Massachusetts state representatives Karyn Polito and John Binienda will be attending the simulation to offer advice and comments on the proceedings. Students will be required to familiarize themselves with a legislative district and to balance the goals of representing district interests and securing the common good of the nation. Students will experience the competing pulls of interest groups, political parties, and committee membership as they play their legislative roles.

Donald Brand, professor of political science, says he “hopes that the students will emerge from this experience with a better understanding of the American political system and will become more actively engaged as citizens.”

After questioning witnesses in hearings, the committees will resume business in mock sessions where amendments to the proposed legislation will be considered. The day will conclude with a brief session on the floor of the “House of Representatives” to debate and vote on two proposed bills.

The final session of the house will take place at 4 p.m. in the Rehm Library.