Sunrise at Afterschool Advocacy Day 2022

On Tuesday March 29th students from Sunrise’s Afterschool enrichment program at South Philadelphia High (@therealsouthphillyhigh) joined advocates from around the state in Harrisburg, PA for #AfterschoolAdvocacyDay2022 !!!

This day annual day of advocacy is led in partnership between the PA state-wide afterschool and youth development network (PSAYDN) and it’s partners. The goal of Advocacy day is to give voice to the people who benefit from after school programs around the state and provide those passionate about the benefits of OST programs the opportunity to have their voices heard.

Capitol Tour -

Our day began with a tour of what president Rosevelt called “the most handsome capitol building in the country”. It was the first time in any state capitol building for all of the students on the tour. The guided exploration consisted of a tour of the entry rotunda, the senate chambers, house of Representatives chamber and the PA Supreme Court chambers. Students were especially interested in the gilded moldings and mind boggling amount of real gold and gold leaf that was used in the original capitol’s construction.

Meetings with Lawmakers -

Sunrise students joined the statewide coalition of OST advocates who spent the day meeting with members of the state legislature to share after school success stories and advocate for permanent statewide funding for OST programs across Philadelphia. Special thanks to the offices of Elizabeth Fiedler (@rep_fiedler) Representative Joanna McClinton (@repmcclinton) and Senator Chirstine Tartaglione (@senator_tartaglione) for taking the time to meet with us and discuss the need for afters school programs in our communities.

Rally on the Capitol Steps -

Student voice was on display during the after school rally on the capitol steps! Close to a dozen students and afterschool advocates spoke during this rally highlighting the direct impact of OST programs on youth from around the state. Sunrise’s own Sirron Gordon was one of the first speakers to the podium where he shared some of his proudest achievements including his recent acceptance to college and his work at Sunrise creating his digital art + graphic design portfolio.

On the way home -

The Sunrise van made a special stop on the way home! We filled up on snacks before heading back to South Philly High. What's your vote - Sheetz or Wawa?