Washington, D.C. — For the second year in a row, Middle School students had the unique opportunity to transform learning into action during an inspiring advocacy trip to Washington, D.C. Partnering once again with the Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL)—a Quaker lobbying organization committed to peace, social justice, and environmental stewardship—students stepped into the heart of democracy to raise their voices on critical issues.
Made possible through the generous support of donors to the Middle School Field Experiences Fund, the trip allowed students to stay at Friends Place on Capitol Hill, a Quaker hospitality center just a ten-minute walk from the U.S. Capitol Building. The proximity to our nation’s lawmakers set the stage for a transformative educational experience, blending civic engagement, historical exploration, and personal growth.
Joining forces with Lancaster Friends School, students participated in a two-hour lobbying workshop led by seasoned advocates at FCNL. The training equipped them with the tools and confidence to speak directly with lawmakers about issues they care about—specifically, the importance of protecting SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and Medicaid.
During a meeting with the legislative director of Representative Glenn Thompson, teachers and adult chaperones stepped back, allowing students to take the lead. Their passion and poise left a lasting impression.
“Adults listen to children more than other adults when lobbying,” one student observed. Another added, “It’s important for kids to learn how the government works—and to know that what we say matters.” Another participant noted, “It was important to go lobby for SNAP and Medicaid because people really need it.”
Beyond lobbying, students soaked up the history and symbolism of the nation’s capital. They toured the Capitol Building. They visited the National Museum of African American History and Culture and connected those experiences to their classroom studies of the Civil Rights Movement. They also made meaningful visits to the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the World War II Memorial, and the Washington Monument.
Reflecting on the experience, one student shared, “The impact of the D.C. trip on me was that it helped me realize what people do in government and how people can influence it.” Another said, “It was fun to go lobby because you know you’re helping people out. It’s fun to know you’re making change.” A third echoed that sentiment: “It inspired me to speak out more and do more lobbying because it’s been proven that it actually does something. It does help.”
This trip offered students more than just a chance to see Washington—it gave them the chance to be heard in Washington. Through advocacy, education, and reflection, these young citizens are learning that democracy works best when everyone, regardless of age, speaks up.