This is an important policy year at the Minnesota State Capitol. Changes in policies that could benefit ABE programming are being considered.  It is crucial that our elected officials understand the vital role ABE programming has in sustaining the vitality of our state and ensuring the success of our children. The Literacy Minnesota Legislative Committee hosted a Legislative Forum at the State Capitol in Saint Paul on Tuesday, February 26, 2008 to provide an opportunity to learn about the legislative process and talk with legislators.
 

Nearly 120 ABE staff and students from around the state attended the forum. Participants attended training sessions in the morning, led by Literacy Minnesota lobbyists and Legislative Committee members with guest appearances by legislators. The trainings helped participants understand

Senator Dennis Fredrickson with Vicki Radloff, Thuy Leach, and Paula Grimmestad from SW ABE

how bills become law, and how to talk effectively with legislators. Following lunch, an inspiring forum was held. A number of prominent legislators spoke about their commitment to ABE, and several ABE students told moving stories regarding how their ABE work helped them in their vocational and family lives. Following the forum, ABE staff and students met with their legislators to talk about ABE. Some also took tours of the Capitol.

 

Overall, the Forum was effective in empowering ABE students and staff to understand and feel comfortable in dealing with the legislative process, while building support for the Literacy Minnesota legislative platform.

 

Special thanks to planners and speakers who made this such a successful event!