Several North Dakota 4-H’ers visited Bismarck recently for a lesson in citizenship.

They gathered in Bismarck in mid-February to practice the legislative process, interact with legislators and gain leadership skills through the seventh annual Citizenship in Action program.

On Sunday, Feb. 15, the 4-H’ers attended workshops on the state legislative process, including the role of the Senate and House of Representatives in North Dakota. The youth then put their knowledge to work by creating their own bill topics and lobbying to pass their bills.

Delegates to the Citizenship in Action event also participated in sessions on public speaking and parliamentary procedure, and had an opportunity to learn more about youth from families with a member serving in the military.

The youth spent Monday, Feb. 16, at the North Dakota Capitol. Youth observed committee meetings, toured the Capitol, met with their local representatives and senators, and viewed the Senate or House in session. The youth also hosted a Stars of 4-H Showcase at which legislators and guests viewed displays that highlighted the 4-H’ers’ leadership and activities.

The NDSU Extension Service’s Center for 4-H Youth Development and the North Dakota 4-H Foundation sponsored the event.

NDSU Agriculture Communication - March 3, 2015