Join parent-leader hosts Melvette Hill and Zulema Gomez in a dynamic conversation on the importance of civic engagement ahead of the upcoming November election. This September episode of our podcast covers a range of topics, from the influence of presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump to the crucial role of local and state judges in shaping future policies. Special guests Donna Thompson Bennett and Hobson McCain from the National Parent Leadership Institute (NPLI) join the conversation this month to discuss everything from voter registration to the importance of local elections and the lasting impact of judicial appointments.

The episode concludes with a discussion on the significance of early voting, voter education, and encouraging community participation. Tune in for tips on how to engage as a parent leader, the importance of poll workers, and how to make sure your vote counts. Don’t miss out on this timely and important discussion!

Join parent leader hosts Melvette Hill and Zulema Gomez on The Bold & The Brave Podcast as they dive into the current state of affairs, including the recent presidential debate between former President Donald Trump and current President Joseph Biden. They discuss the importance of debates in the democratic process, the implications of recent Supreme Court decisions, and the need for civic engagement at every level. Zulema and Melvette also touch upon their experiences at the most recent American Public Human Services Association (APHSA) conference where they presented on the importance of Language Justice. Additionally, they reflect on the complexities of celebrating Juneteenth and the 4th of July, especially in the context of the ongoing struggles for true freedom and equality. Zulema and Melvette close out the podcast discussing the role of libraries as civic spaces, and upcoming summer plans. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on civic responsibilities, historical reflection, and future initiatives.

In this episode of The Bold and the Brave: A Parent Leader Podcast, parent leaders Zulema Gomez and Melvette Hill discuss recent developments in their careers and lives, and the power of parent leadership. The conversation also explores the impact of parent leadership training initiatives like the Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI), the importance of bipartisan civic engagement, and the significance of participating in the democratic process through voting and jury service.

Melvette announces her new role as the Executive Director of the Connecticut General Assembly's Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity, and Opportunity (CWCSEO), sharing her journey from a parent leader and PLTI graduate to this Executive Director position.

Zulema and Melvette also recount their experiences and insights from national gatherings advocating for family policy and education such as the UPLAN National Gathering and the Children's Defense Fund Freedom School National Training, emphasizing the power of collective advocacy and finding common ground despite political differences. The conversation also touches on the recent historic conviction of former President Donald Trump and the importance of civic duties like voting and jury service.

The discussion concludes with a call to stay informed on school board activities, and recent Supreme Court decisions, and to maintain civic duties even during the summer.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

01:25 Career Updates and Exciting New Role

03:36 Journey to Leadership

08:30 UPLAN National Convening and Policy Advocacy

10:35 Finding Common Ground Despite Political Differences

17:10 Children's Defense Fund Freedom School National Training

19:30 Historical Conviction and Civic Duties and Responsibilities

28:09 Summer Engagement and Supreme Court Watch

30:09 Conclusion and Upcoming Events