OPINION: Listen to Alaska youth voices

My encounter with former state Sen. Tom Begich at the age of 14 remains a vivid memory. In Nome, where a group of young people had stirred up a commotion, Tom was brought in as an expert to address the ‘youth problem.’ I recall him walking into the room, taking a seat among us, and posing a simple yet profound question: “What do you think should happen?”

Years later, to hear Begich tell the story, I expertly wielded the power of the youth voice to tell off a room of well-meaning adults after the eventual youth-led project went sideways. I sound like a consummate professional in his version of the story.

I am not sure I remember everything that happened with the same “Xena: Warrior Princess” vibe, but what I do remember is that Tom Begich was an expert at making space for youth voice. He led by example by encouraging other adults in the room to empower the young people to make meaningful changes in their community, even when the adults may be suspicious or doubt such change is for the good. In those moments and so many since then, Begich modeled what it means to listen to the youth voice.

Reflecting on my journey as a youth development professional, I find myself drawing on the invaluable lessons I learned from Tom Begich. The power of youth voice, when given the space to be heard, is a potent tool in community building and activation. When young people fearlessly speak truth to power, they pave the way for a better future for all. The diversity of thought and experience they bring to the table strengthens us all. It is therefore crucial that young people, whether serving on school boards or city governments, are encouraged to voice their opinions without the fear of reprisal. They are the architects of our collective future and should have a significant role in shaping it.

Seeing examples of adult-led organizations attempting to minimize youth voices is disheartening. We all know it takes time to build relationships and connections, which is why many of our elected officials serve for at least two years. Why should a youth representative be any different? Being in a room full of adults can be daunting, and our goal should always be to empower that young person rather than minimize their involvement.

The proposal to disempower the youth representative on the Mat-Su Borough School Board is not just a step backward, it’s a threat to the very essence of our democracy. If approved, it will significantly diminish the role youth voices play in leading discussions about how Mat-Su public schools best serve students. Meaningful engagement and leadership in governance come from active, sustained participation, not simply giving reports. We cannot afford to silence the voices of our future leaders.

There will always be times when youth call out adults. This should be an integral part of the growing-up process. Adults are not infallible, and sometimes, it takes the bravery of youth to recognize that fact. As a society, we should not teach young people to silence or quell dissent, but instead, we should accept pushback and disagreement with humility and patience. Our goal should always be to deepen youth engagement, not make their participation symbolic.

Any effort to minimize the input of the youth voice is futile. Like the young people that came before them, today’s youth will not be censored. They are resilient, determined, and see the world through a lens that challenges the status quo. Their voices are not just a reflection of their experiences, but a beacon of hope for a better future.

As a former young person who benefited from incredible adults who invested in making me the leader I am today, it is my turn to make space and champion youth voices. I stand with the young people.

Sen. Löki Gale Tobin is the chair of the Alaska State Senate Education Committee, serves as the Pride Foundation board secretary, and is a Ph.D. student at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

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