What does representation really mean in local government? This is a question that I’ve pondered throughout my leadership journey. As a high school student, I’ve learned that representation is far more than a word we hear often—it’s something reflected in countless everyday moments.
I’ve seen it on Culture Day, where students engage in special traditions, in talent shows that highlight every kind of ability, career days that open our eyes to a large number of diverse fields, classrooms where students with diverse learning needs receive support, and even at student conferences where voices from many campuses come together to shape decisions that affect us all.
These experiences taught me that representation isn’t just helpful—in fact that’s an understatement: it’s essential. A community grows stronger and more effective when many perspectives are at the table. More representation equals more ideas, more solutions and more ways to create a thriving future.
Unfortunately, increased representation does not happen on its own. It isn’t something we can simply pull out of thin air. Representation is created when people are willing to step forward and serve.
Oftentimes, it can feel discouraging. As a fellow young person, I understand the feeling of wondering, “What power do we really have?” But instead of letting that question hold us back, it should push us forward.
Our voice matters more than we may realize and there are already many ways for young people to participate, lead and influence decisions in our communities.
Throughout high school, I have had the opportunity to serve in student leadership roles and participate in organizations focused on civic engagement. These experiences include serving as President of the Morgan Hill Youth Action Council, Regional Affairs Director for region IV of the Student Senate for California Community Colleges and as a Representative on Superintendent Munshi’s Youth Advisory Committee.
Through these experiences, I have learned how decisions are made, how to advocate for issues that matter, and how to communicate with elected officials.
For example, through opportunities such as attending an advocacy trip to the state Capitol with Gavilan College representatives, I have seen how my voice can directly contribute to conversations about issues like expanded community college housing.
In spaces like the Gilroy Unified School District Superintendent’s Youth Committee, we come together to share input on the state of their schools and offer suggestions for meaningful improvements.
At Morgan Hill Youth Action Council (YAC) meetings, conversations with city leaders show how our perspectives as youth can help shape real decisions. Similarly, at statewide assemblies and youth leadership conferences, students like myself collaborate to pass resolutions on issues ranging from student worker rights to improving access to resources such as free meals.
These opportunities have shown me that youth involvement is an important part of government. They also reveal that student leadership can lead to elected service, making the transition feel easier.
Thirty-eight percent of our population is 24 years old or younger and they live, play, go to school and work in Gilroy. Elected seats open on the Nov. 3 ballot are Gilroy City Council D4, D5, D6 and GUSD Trustee A1, A3, A4, A7. The filing period to run for office is July 13-Aug. 7.
GUSD Trustee candidates go through the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters Office to get on the ballot and Gilroy City Council candidates go through the City of Gilroy Clerk’s Office.
The future of Gilroy will be shaped by those who choose to get involved. Every meeting attended, every concern raised and every leadership role accepted is an opportunity to make a difference.
We will have increased representation when we as a community recognize that youth voices truly matter. Our generation has more power to shape the future than many may realize, and that future starts when we choose to participate.
Dymphna (DJ) William is a rising senior at Dr. TJ Owens Gilroy Early College Academy, pursuing an associate’s degree in Political Science, Social Science and Spanish at Gavilan College. She serves as an intern for Council Member Zach Hilton, Regional Affairs Director for Region IV of the Student Senate for California Community Colleges, and as President of the Morgan Hill Youth Action Council, where she leads initiatives focused on youth engagement.
