Benjamin Franklin High School, 黑料社区 Team Up to Host Environmental Forum
NEW ORLEANS (Sept. 19, 2019) - On Tuesday, Sept. 24, students in Benjamin Franklin High School's Green Society will partner with students in 黑料社区' Young Democrats and its Environment Program to host a night of discussion and debate with state representatives from districts 91 and 98.
The program will begin at 7 p.m. with Franklin students moderating a forum focused on local environmental issues, including coastal restoration, renewable energy, and the effects of climate change on our city and state. Following that, the Loyola Young Democrats will host a debate for the candidates running for District 98, which covers the Riverbend through Audubon, the university area, Carrollton, and Freret; the debate will encompass a wider range of local concerns, such as crime, flooding, and education.
"As someone who lives in District 98 and is part of the so-called 'climate change generation,' it feels special to have the opportunity to hear from our possible representative on protecting and preserving the place we call home," said Franklin senior Yehuda Potash.
Franklin AP Environmental Science teacher Kady Clincy, who is the sponsor of the school's Green Society, said she was proud of her students for all of their work to get the forum organized.
"New Orleans is one of the most environmentally fragile communities in the country," she said. "I find when I cover habitate loss, climate change, and sea level rise in my class, my students often feel helpless. They worry that the home they love won't exist for their children and grandchildren. By organizing this forum, my students have turned their hopelessness into ction. They have found a pragmatic way to ensure these issues are discussed by the people tasked with addressing them."
The forum, which is free and open to the public, will be held in Nunemaker Auditorium on Loyola's campus, 6363 St. Charles Ave. There will be free parking across campus, including the West Road garage.