Kennedy Institute opens reservations for Summer 2022 camp visits

The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate is now accepting reservations for Summer 2022 in-person and virtual visits by camp and school groups, with young people getting top priority for access to the Institute and its internationally renowned full-scale replica of the U.S. Senate chambers.

The Kennedy Institute will welcome groups of up to 60 campers at a time for two-hour visits on Tuesdays through Fridays from June 7 through August 25. Thanks to public and philanthropic funding support, the Kennedy Institute is able to offer scholarships for Massachusetts groups to cover some or all admission costs or transportation costs based on need. Registration is available at https://www.emkinstitute.org/resources/visit-request-form
"Right at the heart of the Kennedy Institute's mission is our conviction that it's never too soon for young people to learn about how they can become engaged citizens and participate in the civic life of their communities,'' said Caroline Angel Burke, Vice President of Education, Visitor Experience & Collections. "Through age-appropriate, interactive, and fun educational programs in our unique and inspiring Senate chamber, kids get inspired to learn about how our government and democracy work and how they can become the next generation of leaders in their communities."
As the Kennedy Institute begins reopening its facility to in-person visitors as COVID-19 pandemic protocols allow, camp and school groups are being given priority access to reserve the facility for in-person visits this summer. Among educational offerings available:

• "Welcoming Words" introduces students in grades K-3 to the Statue of Liberty as a symbol of welcome for new immigrants. Students hear a story about Lady Liberty, participate in a guided discussion about what it means to welcome others, and work on a creative activity together with a Kennedy Institute staff member.
• For grades 4-8, the Kennedy Institute's "Pathways" programs teach students about modern-day issues such as citizenship and environmental justice. Students work together as if they were "U.S. Senators for a day" to create a bill that effectively balances the needs of various groups affected by the issue.
• For grades 9-12, students can participate in a "Today's Vote" simulated U.S. Senate session and a live floor debate on a legislation involving the Electoral College, Green New Deal, or voting rights, or a "Real Life Civics" presentation on the role of traditions and norms for presidents, legislators, and judges within the United States' constitutional democracy.

"In addition to learning about the importance of our democracy and the history and role of the Senate, visits to the Kennedy Institute also give summer campers and students a chance to experience one of Boston's unique attractions, right next to Boston Harbor on Columbia Point,'' said Sarah Yezzi, Director of Education, Family, and Youth Programming at the Kennedy Institute.

As it has during the past two school years, the Kennedy Institute will also continue to make educational offerings available as online/Zoom events during the summer. Detailed information about available programs may be found at https://www.emkinstitute.org/explore-the-institute/dynamic-educational-experiences/online-resources/facilitated-school-programs

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About the Edward M. Kennedy Institute
The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate is dedicated to educating the public about the important role of the Senate in our government, encouraging participatory democracy, invigorating civil discourse, and inspiring the next generation of citizens and leaders to engage in the civic life of their communities. Learn more via emkinstitute.org.