When I found out that the Oregon Kid Governor program won’t continue next year because of budget cuts, I felt frustrated and sad. Not just for myself, but for every fifth grader who was waiting for their chance to run, vote and learn how democracy works.
In the Kid Governor program, fifth graders run campaigns, make speeches, hold debates and vote, like adults do, for their favorite candidate to serve as “Kid Governor” the following year. Kids learn that in a democracy, your voice only matters if you use it. Without this program, thousands of Oregon kids will miss that lesson at a time when civics education matters more than ever.
Young people care deeply about the future. We care about climate change, mental health, ending racism and bullying, and helping those without homes. We start recycling projects and help run food drives. Fifth graders may be young, but we’re already practicing citizenship. Funding this program is a small investment with a big return: kids who grow up to vote, lead and serve their communities.
Civics education is a necessity, not a luxury. To every student who hoped to run, keep speaking up. Speak up in your classroom, your neighborhood or even at the state Capitol. Your voice matters.
Kids may not pay taxes, but we are paying attention. If we want a healthy democracy tomorrow, we need to start by teaching democracy today.
Rosie Lanenga, Portland
Lanenga is a sixth grader and Oregon’s 2025 kid governor.