‘Pizza And Politics’ In West Orange: Outreach Event Inspires Teens

WEST ORANGE, NJ — An election season outreach event in West Orange recently paired “pizza with politics” in an attempt to inspire teens to understand their civic duties – and the impact of their voices on the political process.

More than 100 teens and parents attended last month’s “Pizza and Politics” event at the council chambers of West Orange Town Hall.

The event brought together youth members of the Essex-Hudson Chapter of Jack and Jill of America with other groups from Greater Essex, North Jersey, Morris County, Greater Union and Central Jersey.

The day’s activities included panel discussions, “breakout sessions” and a hands-on campaign postcard-writing activity aimed at key battleground states.

The mission of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. — to nurture future African American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty — was on full display throughout the event, organizers said.

“Our teens left with a better understanding of how they can help shape their communities and the future of our country by making their voices heard through advocacy and civic engagement,” said Kelly Garnes-Pages, president of the Essex-Hudson Chapter.

Councilwoman Tammy Williams, who helped to bring the event to West Orange, said the event was a “powerful demonstration” of how to engage our youth in the democratic process.

“By providing them with the opportunity to meet their elected officials, learn about the importance of elections, and take part in political activism, we’re ensuring that the next generation of leaders are informed, involved and inspired,” Williams said.

Other elected officials present at the event included Mayor Susan McCartney of West Orange, New Jersey State Senator Britnee Timberlake, New Jersey Assemblywoman Alixon Collazos-Gill, Mayor Dwayne Warren of Orange, Councilmember Naiima Fauntleroy of East Orange, Councilman Brian Hargrove of Chatham Borough, and Board of Education member Tonya Williams of Scotch Plains. Representatives from the local NAACP chapter were also on hand to discuss youth mobilization and community education efforts.

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