SACRAMENTO – Assemblywoman Nicole Parra (D-Hanford) today attended a luncheon, at the State Capitol, with participants in this year’s Women in Politics Program, which seeks to teach students about public policy and political issues as they relate to California.

“This is a fantastic program, because it provides a very accurate glimpse of the hustle and bustle of state politics for these young women,” said Assemblywoman Parra. “Its great to see so many young people interested in politics. I encourage them to learn more and to stay involved, because public service will always need energetic and motivated people in its ranks.”

For this year’s program, Assemblywoman Parra named Mary Clare Navalta, from Delano High School, and Emily Trujillo, of Hanford West High School, as the 30th Assembly District’s representatives. Altogether, forty young women, between the ages of 14 and 18, arrived in Sacramento this week to explore public policy, political issues, and political processes as part of the Women in Politics Program, which is sponsored by the non-profit California Center. The group took part in a series of interactive meetings with professionals from the legislative and executive branches, lobbying groups, and the media. Participants also analyzed different perspectives on a variety of statewide issues and held simulated legislative hearings. Upon returning home, participants are strongly urged to compose reports and generate discussions as a way of educating their fellow students and constituents.

To learn more about the California Center and the programs it offers, please call (916) 443-2229 or visit their web site at www.californiacenter.org.