Remarks for the First National Environmental Youth Advisory Council Meeting, As Prepared for Delivery
Michael Regan
Washington, DC
Thank you, Carissa, for that introduction.
I’m excited to join you all today for day two of the first ever NEYAC convening.
Before we begin, I want to make it clear—this is your meeting. I am here to listen and not steer the conversation.
This gathering represents a major step forward in our agency’s efforts to bring forth the perspective of young people as we work together to address the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
The topics we’re talking about today—the charge questions that you will be discussing—were carefully crafted thanks to your initial thoughts and feedback.
The work and decisions we will make over the next year will have significant impacts on the future of our communities, and the future of our planet.
Since day one of this administration, I’ve made an effort to ensure that young people always have a seat at EPA’s table.
To be part of the National Environmental Youth Advisory Council means you have been selected as the voice of your communities, and of your generation.
Through your work, achievements, community organizing, and more—every single one of you has harnessed the power to create change in your communities that addresses environmental issues all across our country.
We’ve carefully selected every one of you for the first ever cohort of the NEYAC. We received over 1200 applicants during the process, but your perspectives, experiences, and knowledge set you apart from the rest, and we’re expecting you to bring that same energy, every single meeting, and every time you represent the NEYAC.
As leaders of the next generation of change-makers, you can’t let this opportunity go to waste—I want to make sure that you understand the power that you have participating on the NEYAC.
You hold the power to amplify the priorities of your generation for visions of a safer and cleaner future, and direct the dialogue at the federal level in a way that has never been done before.
Remember to use your platform and influence as NEYAC members to engage and uplift your peers in conversations concerning climate anxiety, climate change, environmental justice, and so much more.
Remember that this is a crucial point in history where your voices and perspectives are valued, and you truly have the potential to make a real difference in this agency’s decision-making process.
And remember that I and my team are here to support you every step of the way.
Let’s work together to ensure that your voices are at the heart of the decisions made here at EPA, and that your ideas are driving the solutions that will put the planet on a path to being healthy and sustainable for all of us.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!