Apply for Iowa Youth Congress
Iowa Youth Congress is accepting applications for the 2023-2024 term. Gain hands-on education in government, advocacy, and civic engagement. Applications are due May 31,2023. Apply here: bit.ly/IowaYouthCongress2023.
What is IYC? |
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Iowa Youth Congress (IYC) was created in 2006 by the Department of Human Rights (DHR) to enhance opportunity and broader representation of all Iowans in the government process. The IYC provides youth of all backgrounds the opportunity to gain hands-on education in the subject areas of state government, democracy, advocacy, and civic engagement. To apply for 2023-2024 term, click here. The application deadline is May 31. |
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Legislative Initiatives: |
IYC Members |
IYC's 2022-2023 legislative initiatives include:
To see previous youth issues IYC has advocated for click here: |
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IYC and Service |
Event Photos |
Testimonials & Quotes
Other quotes from current and past IYC members:"Programs like IYC help instill power in youth and teach us that power has always been in the hands of youth." -Volta Adovor (2019-2021) "Through learning about and engaging in advocacy and leadership, I have found power within my voice, a power I never knew existed. IYC has given me the confidence to not only create change within myself, but also to create change within my community." -Abby King (2020-2021) "I enjoy the exposure to many different ideas, view points, and beliefs that IYC has exposed me to." -2021-2022 IYC Member "Expanding my network through people in IYC has helped me participate in more social justice events and groups." -2021-2022 IYC Member "I think my favorite part of IYC so far has been being able to be exposed to the way the government system works and being given several different ways to reach out to legislators and being given tips on how to properly communicate with legislators about topics I feel are important to bring to their notice." -2021-2022 IYC Member |
District OrientationsMembers of IYC meet in-person in their regional districts to learn about the IYC Program and meet each other for the first time. During that time, they do a feedback wall to decide what issue topics they will be working on for the year. Click here to see past year photos. |
Mock CongressIYC Members at Mock Congress, hosted in the fall, debate and vote on their legislative agenda for the year. The event is held at the Iowa State Capitol in the House Chamber.
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Legislative Prep DayOn January 17, members of the Iowa Youth Congress shared information on their legislative priorities with legislators. |
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QuestionsFor questions regarding applying or IYC in general, please contact the DHR Youth Development Coordinator at kayla.powell@iowa.gov |