Written by Rachel Wang On Monday, January 28th, the CAPA JRC ventured into downtown DC for a full-day tour of the US Capitol, a symbol marking the nation’s historically-representative government. The JRC toured the meeting halls of both the US Senate and House of Representatives, witnessing literal political change occur live before their eyes. The JRC also had the valuable opportunity of interviewing Senator Chris Van Hollen and Congressman Jamie Raskin- both representing Maryland state- to learn about the driving forces that propel these two passionate politicians who strive towards representation. Capitol tour The young reporters had the privileged opportunity to spectate the whole interior of the Capitol. They grasped firm concepts of the US’s democratic government through the assimilation of the nation’s beginning, learning about how the 18th century patriots fought for their liberty from Britain through many historical wars and acts of diplomacy. The reporters viewed the grandiosity of the decorated Capitol rotunda and the 100 state-representative statues of important US figures, regarding them as examples of the nation’s constant fight for representation. The nation’s motto’s meaning was absorbed through the general tour: “E pluribus unum” – out of many, one.
The nation’s motto’s meaning was absorbed through the general tour: “E pluribus unum” – out of many, one.
Senate/House tours After observing the historical displays of the nation’s start, the JRC visited the modern quarters of political advancement. The large Hall of the House, packed with the 435 seats of the US representatives, is viewed as the center of political innovation. The junior reporters asked many inquiries about the functioning of the House, thus learning about the voting system, member placements, and meeting schedulings of the hall. Next, the avid reporters tread to spectate the active sessions in the Senate Chamber. The JRC observed the process of each senator’s speech, ardently studying the Senate’s general layout. After realizing that, as high schoolers, the “page” program would be offered as a government internship opportunity, many JRC members immediately expressed their interest. Conclusion After an abundant day of touring the Capitol, the JRC reporters realized their plentiful gain from the day’s fulfilling offerings. Not only had they had the chance to observe the nation’s capital city’s splendor, they had gained a deeper understanding of the US’s general political functions and values. A big thank you to all the CAPA members who made the Capitol trip possible for the junior reporters!
This article was provided by Chinese American Parents Association Junior Reporter Club (CAPA JRC) with members who interviewed, audio recorded, wrote, translated, and video recorded. CAPA JRC has 19 Montgomery County middle to high school students. They have created a bilingual platform delivering news and serving the community.
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Blog: https://capajrc.org
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