#MNHSDFL
Civic Corner #1
Civic Corner November: Using Your Voice How Teens Can Speak at City Council Meetings
Most people think civic engagement starts at 18, but the truth is, your voice already matters
especially in your own community. One of the most direct ways to make an impact before you
can even vote is by showing up and speaking at a city council meeting. Local officials make
decisions about things that shape your daily life: parks, sidewalks, public safety, bus routes, and
youth programs. You have every right to be part of that conversation.
How City Council Meetings Work
Every city in Minnesota holds regular council meetings, usually once or twice a month. These
meetings are open to the public under the Minnesota Open Meeting Law, which means anyone can attend. Most include a “public comment” period where residents , (including high school students!) can speak for a few minutes about an issue that matters to them. Some cities require you to sign up before the meeting starts, while others allow spontaneous participation. Some cities also allow you to submit online comments so if public speaking isn’t your thing that is a
great way to get your voice heard! You can find the schedule, rules, and agenda on your city’s
website (look for the “Government” or “City Council” tab).
Preparing to Speak
1. Pick a topic that connects to your life or school community like mental health resources,
safe crosswalks, or library programs.
2. Read the agenda so your comments align with the meeting’s focus.
3. Write a short statement about two minutes long that includes:
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Your name, city, and school
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Why you care about the issue
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What you’d like the council to consider or change
4. Practice out loud to make sure you stay within time limits (usually 2–3 minutes).
5. Show up early, sign in if needed, and listen to other speakers before it’s your turn.Tips for Success
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Be respectful, even if you disagree.
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Speak clearly and with confidence.
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Remember your lived experience matters —being a teen doesn’t diminish those
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experiences
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Keep it specific and solution-focused: “I’d like to see the city explore… ” works better than
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“You should fix this.”
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Thank the council when you’re done!
Why It Matters
When young people speak on issues people notice using your voice for the issues that affect
you in your community is an amazing oppuritunity to get your voice heard and inspire change
Take Action: Look up your next city council meeting by typing in “your city” city council to find the
official website Attend one this month watch, learn, and when you’re ready, speak up!
Get Involved
1
Register with HSDA
In order to get involved with the High School Democrats of America on a national level and get to know progressive high schoolers across the country, you should officially register with the High School Democrats of America! It’s a great opportunity to get to know people and to get resources.
3
Join Slack
One of the best ways to access a community of engaged high schoolers is through the group chats that we send opportunities in and talk about politics. Both HSDA and the MNHSDFL have Slack channels where members can talk about politics and gain access to opportunities. This is the best way to get involved!
About Our Mission
The MNHSDFL is devoted to implementing progressive policies within the state of Minnesota, with a specific focus on high schoolers. Student-led and student-driven, we are passionate about using this organization to implement positive policy changes for the state of Minnesota and the country at large.