The fight for justice starts from the ground up and, within MAP, grassroots movements are burning strong. Mitty’s Advocacy Project, or MAP, is a student-led club that aims to bring passion to progress, as members pursue legislative and tangible change they care about. MAP often hosts lunchtime events featuring interactive activities and volunteer opportunities to raise awareness of social justice. You might recognize them from last year’s voter registration booth or Environmental Week during the spring. This year, the platform is open for students to make their impact known, with new initiatives being introduced as well as exciting projects for each of the issue teams. 

This year, MAP is divided into three sections: Environmental Justice, Criminal Justice, and MAPx. Each team researches, pursues, and advocates for resolutions that they later bring to senators and assembly members for support. Environmental Justice, focusing on climate and environmental policy, has recently begun a climate adaptation strategy for transportation in vulnerable communities, as well as a water rate assistance program.

Criminal Justice seeks to address issues such as prison reform and rehabilitation; current proposals range from physical and mental health to a structured process for juvenile rehabilitation. Finally, MAPx offers an open door to any justice-related legislature, providing a space where whatever issues that come to mind can be addressed.

Currently, projects including closing the gender pay gap and expanding funding for children’s education are in full swing as the groups work to finish their proposals for advocacy. Alongside legislation, MAP’s media outreach aims to educate Mitty students in an artistic and accessible way. Through carefully planning lunchtime booths, designing posters, and producing Mitty minutes, MAP channels creativity to inform and engage the Mitty community.

With a wide variety of developing activities, now is the perfect time for interested students to attend. Typically, students are provided the opportunity to travel to the annual Sacramento Advocacy Summit, Washington D.C., and the recent addition of Santa Cruz, each presenting opportunities to speak with government officials.

MAP is meant for all students who want to bring their advocacy into action. The welcoming community, as well as unique innovation, creates a space for students to express and implement their ideas into our community. MAP is also a great opportunity to talk to legislators and our state representatives so that each voice can be heard, with events and impact that you can be a part of.

To join, just email the presidents, [email protected] and [email protected]!