Youths from the 92nd British Columbia Youth Parliament (BCYP) will not be meeting at the Legislative Assembly of B.C. in Victoria for the first time in over 70 years.
Just less than 100 youths, ages 16 to 21, from all over B.C. will instead transition to an online format to debate plans for the upcoming year from Dec. 27 to 31.
Adriana Thom, Premier of the 92nd BCYP, said this year has presented many challenges for the organization and the whole world.
“While we do not know what 2021 will hold – I am excited to be working with 97 incredible youth from across our province who make up our membership,” said Thom in a media statement.
“BCYP has always been about empowering young people to make a positive chance in our communities, and that is what we plan to continue doing this year.”
During winter break, youths with the BCYP come together to make plans for the upcoming year and they discuss important social issues and propose ideas through Private Members Resolution.
This year, the BCYP will address topics including lowering B.C.’s minimum voting age, implementing a mandatory vaccination program for COVID-19 vaccines in the province, and extending the Broadway subway project to UBC.
B.C.’s Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry will serve as this year’s honorary Lieutenant Governor for the Youth Parliament.
