The solidarity started days before my first Educator Day on the Hill. I could have driven myself to the Capitol, but honestly, I didn’t want to — I was anxious. Mary told me not to worry, and sure enough, I had an email in my inbox on Thursday asking about a carpool.
I hesitated a few times before Friday and wondered if this was something I should do. Was my presence really necessary among so many experienced educators? Surely they didn’t need me.
Then I remembered: My union is like a book club, not a vending machine. A vending machine sits alone, and people only visit one when they want something. But a book club works because people show up. It gets better when I participate and share my ideas.
That’s why I became a policy ambassador — to understand how education decisions are made and to participate in the process.
Clutching a map and a list of legislative priorities, I introduced myself at the briefing. When I admitted it was my first Educator Day on the Hill, I was surprised by the applause. It made me feel welcomed and part of something bigger. Our first committee hearing — Public Education Appropriations — was impressive. Everyone had done their research, and it was clear we all cared deeply about education.
Next, alongside a fellow policy ambassador, I met with my representative. I shared concerns about income tax funds and chronic absenteeism. He asked thoughtful questions, and I realized we had more in common than I expected. I left the meeting upbeat — my first meeting, and it went really well. We then watched the House and Senate in session, and I reflected on the ideas shaping Utah, happening right below my feet.
It had been a day full of firsts, and instead of feeling tired, I felt invigorated. My voice mattered, strengthened by the support of fellow policy ambassadors. As I walked toward Cindy after lunch, I couldn’t help but say, “I’m already excited for my next Educator Day on the Hill.” I also felt energized to get more involved with UEA and to keep emailing legislators using what I learned through the Policy Ambassador Program.
I’ll see you at the next Educator Day on the Hill. I’ll be the one wearing red — and giving you a big round of applause if you’re a first-timer.
