Class 099: HMN, Next Generation

Orange County students visit Washington, D.C., and learn about what being part of society is all about.
By Adrian Brindis, Graduate Alumni

On October 8, 1997 students including myself went on a trip to Washington, D.C. The point of the field trip was for us, the future of this country, to understand and learn what being part of a society means as well as to teach us the importance of being actively involved in our society. We had the opportunity to go to Congress and meet personally with Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez. We also had the opportunity to go to the Supreme court. We visited several historical sites while in DC such as the White House, The Washington Monument, the National Postal Museum, the National History Museum and the Holocaust Museum. We also went to Lincoln’s Monument and attended a dinner at the AFL-CIO in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. While in Washington, we attended several workshops on self improvement and political awareness, we all learned how important it is to be a part of the development of our country. You might ask what do I mean by that. Ever since this country was created, the reason why the colonists fought the British in the 1700’s was that the Colonies were being taxed with out being represented in the British government. Had the colonies remained loyal without protesting, this country might not have been created. During those times, colonials pulled to-gather and got involved to improve their young yet effective government. During the Civil Rights movement, people got involved and changed the way the government was run politically. As time goes on, people need to be involved in any kind of political aspect to be able to change things. Whether it is voting or being involved in a political organization, in a democracy, the ones who run the country are the people. If people don’t get involved, the upper class, which consists of a very small percentage of the population will take charge and will eventually benefit only themselves without thinking of the other classes. In the greatest country in the world, people need to take pride and interest to keep the American dream going for future generations to come. My experience in Washington, D.C. in one which I will carry with me throughout my professional career and the memories will stay with me forever.