PRESS FAREWELLS.

By: Isabella Alvarez and Shae Camardo

As the curtains draw to a close on this year’s Model UN conference, a group of seniors in the press corps find themselves at the intersection of nostalgia and anticipation. For these senior journalists, MUN has been much more than an extracurricular activity. 

Seventeen-year-old Bethel Derege, a senior from MLK Magnet High School, is a seasoned veteran of MUN. She has grown close to these achievers from all over Tennessee, bonding with her desire to grow, learn, and experience more.

“MUN has exposed me to a diverse group of people that I probably wouldn’t have been able to meet if I had not taken part in it. It also helped me to form my own perspectives on issues, not only on the local scale but on the global scale as well” Derege said. 

      In the culmination of 3 years at Model UN, senior Jada Porter navigates her final year with assertion and diplomacy. The Videographer Officer was elected last year by peers for her individualism and leadership, apparent in her actions and accomplishments.

    “The DGC has helped me correlate with other people. It’s been great to learn collaboration skills with my fellow officers. It has taught me how to be a leader” Porter said. 

James Lawson High Senior Anton Do reflects on his 3 years spent at MUN in a slightly poignant manner, still maintaining optimism regardless. This is his first time being part of the Department of Global Communications at MUN. He has made many memories as a GA delegate and in his short yet meaningful time as Press.

“My favorite MUN memory overall, out of all the years I’ve done it, it’s definitely when it was my first year and we were in committees with Madagascar. We were listening to them present their bill which was about, um, flightless aviation birds to fight, um, wars… or something. And that was, that was an experience. Oh my god. It gave me a good laugh” Do said 

MUN has provided so many opportunities for development and inspiration, on topical and deep levels. Whether it be crafting lifelong skills or honing in on humor, MUN opens up genuine human connections that can be held with someone for years.

An overall consensus takeaway from DGC is the valuable ability to learn public speaking and how to network with peers and colleagues. 

“At the end of the day, confidence is key. You could have no idea what you’re talking about, but still make a valid argument for or against something. As long as you believe in what you’re saying” admits Derege.

Do agrees with Derege’s school of thought as well.

“Public speaking? Check. Because in Press and GA, you’ve got to make connections. It’s about how you treat others because talking to people is always nice. Meeting new people, new personalities; you may never know who is exactly like you, just in a different font” Do said.

“Press has helped me communicate with strangers who have the same interests as me. Being an officer has helped me improve my public speaking skills as well. First you have to run, but also you have to be able to communicate effectively to your fellow delegates” Porter said. 

The benefits from DGC are wonderful keepsakes, yet sadly don’t suppress the bittersweet reminders of MUN closure and resolution. 

“I’m definitely gonna be sad because coming from sophomore year all the way up, I’m gonna miss seeing all these different diverse groups of people, sharing all their stories, and seeing multiple personalities come together” Do professes.

“It feels bittersweet. I’ve been doing this since 9th grade and it feels strange that this chapter is coming to a close” Derege said. 

The Department of Global Communications has been a wonderful experience for everyone involved.

  “I would say my sense of the YMCA MUN program is that it gives connection. It gives students a very good idea of how the real world is, and a foundation for how governments across the nations interact with each other and decide ‘what do we need to do to fix this problem?’ It allows students to understand this is what I want to do in the future. This is what I want to pursue” Do said.

The DGC was asked if they had any goodbyes.

“Well, stan TXT!” Do voiced happily.

A Day in the Life of a Secretariat

By: Reagan Mattingly

As a member of the Secretariat, you arrive at your designated conference room and settle into your chair. The Secretary General, Atticus Belcher, starts the meeting with morning announcements that include reminders, along with the agenda for the secession. Once he has concluded his brief speech and explained the work ahead of them, the members launch themselves into their work without an ounce of hesitation.

You participate in the assignments through extensive discussions regarding the summit. Patrons of resolutions are hopeful that the discussions you have in the Secretariat about the feasibility and the cost of your resolution will highlight it in a positive light. As a member of the secretariat, you are a deciding factor in a patron’s resolution passing on the first day of MUN.

Essentially, the secretaries are there to make the job of the Secretary General easier by providing many perspectives and opinions regarding a resolution or summit topic. This will help to make a more well-rounded decision. 

The pacing of the progress you make on assignments is one of rapid speed because you are receiving assignments in an accelerated manner. However, there can be drawbacks if you are too efficient in your approach to the assigned discussions. If you complete all the details on the agenda within the section, and you have extra time on your hands, you could be left to your own devices to entertain yourself. 

Because the discussions are facilitated by a group of smaller people, everyone can participate and have a hand in the decision-making process. This evokes a sense of community within the Secretariat. You experience a great amount of satisfaction when your input is considered, and you worked with others to come to a common conclusion that will better the world in which you live. The togetherness and camaraderie are a key aspect of the sessions that is noted as favorable by many of the secretaries.

As a member of the Secretariat, you have the privilege to participate in the Midnight Crisis. This event is restricted to the Security Council and the Secretariat. You are given an event for which you must create a solution. This year the situation is the hypothetical: what if Palestine dropped a rocket in Egypt? You will work into the late hours of the night to arrive at a collaborative solution that would solve the discourse caused by the event you are given. 

The life of a Secretariat, although rapid and at times enjoyable or satisfactory, holds a great amount of responsibility. You, as a secretary, are contributing to decisions that are meant to push the progression of the world towards a better future. 

Delegate’s Thought Process:

By Reagan Mattingly

Being a delegate, although a common job facilitated by the attendants of MUN, is not simple. There is an internal decision to be made by each of them regarding the resolution being presented. Because of this intense battle within the brains of each delegate, I decided to interview a few regarding their train of thought and the reasons for their actions. 

To better understand the mind of a delegate, I asked Darrah Bhambhani, the representative of Denmark Two in Committee Three who was an avid participant in the debates occurring within the room.

ME: What factors influence your stance, both on the questions you ask and your voting towards the end? 

DARRAH: Well-spoken answers, well thought out answers, and specific answers.

ME: How does appearance and confidence impact your actions or opinions?

DARRAH: I think, well, I do forensics, so I can tell when someone is really confident and that usually comes from being in a bigger group, that definitely gives people a lot of confidence because other group members can like encourage them if they don’t know the answer. But also the way you are dressed up. If you are very like pristine in your clothing, if feel like that can give you a lot of confidence.

ME: What is the most common method of approach for questioning that you use personally?

DARRAH: I don’t really ask about GDPs and that kind of stuff. I like to see what they are asking money for – and how much money that country is already receiving for that, and I want to know where that money is going. 

ME: What do you believe is the benefit, or purpose, of thinking about both pros and cons of a resolution?

DARRAH: It really lets you empathize with others, like you can empathize with the patron’s position, so you might not agree with a certain policy a country has, but you can empathize, like understand where they’re coming from, and why they desire this policy. It allows you to make a better statement whenever you are writing. If you care, then is comes out in whatever you say. 

When Darrah mentioned empathy, it sparked a memory of the actions of another delegate in Committee Three. I was watching a debate unfold and Latvia had just gone through their first round of con questions, when Sarah Przybyszewski (representing Albania Two) was selected to start the pro round. 

Rather than questioning the patrons, she made the decision to address the delegates directly to explain her reasoning for her desire to pass the bill. This had not yet been done within the committee and her direct approach piqued my interest as an observer. 

I was able to catch her once the committee was dismissed and questioned her on what motivated her to address the floor in the defense of Latvia. She responded that her goal of her action was to express her passion for the resolution in question to her fellow delegates, and that occasionally when a delegate presents a pro question, or series of questions, the initial meaning is lost, but with a direct proclamation of her opinion there is no reason for her thoughts to be lost in translation. 

The second occurrence of a delegate addressing the floor within Committee Three was William Edwards, representing Gabon, expressed his want for the passing of the Central African Republic’s resolution to regain their autonomy of their mines. He encouraged the delegates to pass this resolution. After looking back at his nation’s resolution, I was able to find a connection between the two. Ganon was hoping to create a solution to unemployment through the expansion of the mining industry. Gabon being a supporter of the mining industry as a solution resulted in their support for the Central African Republic reacquiring control of the mines within their nation. 

There are many details flying around the mind of a delegate, so to break down their thought process was integral for comprehension of why they take action regarding the passing of a resolution.

VOTING AT MUN: A DELEGATE’S STORY

By: Bethel Derege and Shae Camardo

As polls open, it becomes increasingly crucial for delegates to approach the voting places in their components. The impact of voting at MUN is symbolic and extends to the core of the conference’s purpose – fostering a sense of responsibility and empowerment among young delegates. By participating in the voting process, students learn the value of their opinions and their role in shaping the future within and beyond the MUN context.

Samra Mekonnen, a dedicated student from Nolensville High, shares insights into the crucial aspect of the MUN experience: the voting process.

As a member of the secretariat, Samra understands the intricacies of the Model UN system and emphasizes the simplicity of the voting process. 

“Voting is easy,” she explains, “you just check whatever component you are a part of and choose who you want to vote for.” 

The ease of the process is designed to encourage active participation, ensuring that every delegate can express their opinion.

Samra believes strongly in the importance of every voice in the MUN setting. “Everyone’s voice needs to be heard,” she declares, highlighting the democratic nature of the MUN proceedings. Despite the perception that individual votes may get lost in the sea of participants, Samra firmly disagrees.

  “Some people think there are hundreds of people here and their votes are not going to matter, but I think it does, every vote matters.”

As the Model United Nations conference unfolds, Samra’s words linger in the air – a call to action for each delegate to recognize the weight of their vote, transcending the confines of the simulation and resonating in the corridors of real-world diplomacy. The power of every vote is magnified here, and we must remember that the collective voice shapes the course of history.

FASHION AND SELF EXPRESSION AT MUN

By: Shae Camardo, Isabella Alvarez, Bethel Derege

In a formal setting, where dress codes and regulations often prescribe a certain uniformity, the avenue for self-expression and individuality in fashion may appear limited. However, a nuanced canvas for individuals to convey their unique identities is beneath the surface of structured attire. 

Delving into the art of self-expression within formal fashion and exploring how subtle choices and personal touches can make a bold statement in environments that seemingly prioritize conformity parallels the individualism of thought in Model UN.

Binyam Dunne, a 10th-grade delegate representing Pakistan, effortlessly stands out with his distinctive style. Eschewing the typical fascination with high-end sneakers, Binyam opts for white canvas sneakers, “I’m not a big shoe game guy,” Dunne said.

Yet, his approach to socks becomes a signature aspect of his ensemble that he takes pride in.

“I always try to be unique with those,” Binyam said. 

Beyond the surface, Binyam’s outfit choices reflect his multifaceted identity. Adopted interracially, he embraces the various influences that shape his fashion sense. 

“I like to present myself in a way that I think other people like, but also, most importantly, what I feel most comfortable in,” Binyam said.

Beyond the fashion, Binyam is running for General Assembly Vice President. His platform focuses on issues close to his heart as an advocate for international adoption.

Additionally, Binyam aims to address the youth educational system’s role in combating climate change and promoting affordable musical education for the youth.

Binyam Dunne stands out in the sea of candidates for his fashion choices and commitment to inclusivity, passion for change, and vibrant personality. As the campaign slogan echoes, “VOTE DUNNE, Get it DUNNE!” – a call to action as resonant and impactful as the candidate himself.

Representing France, Sophia Shi is an up-and-coming musician in her junior year at Hume Fogg Academy, right in the heart of Music City. Not a stranger to self-expression, Sophia conveys herself through many mediums, including her clothing.

“I’m wearing a floral vest with a white long-sleeve button-down underneath it and a pair of wide casual pants with brown docs,” Shi said.

Shi puts a lot of consideration into her outfits. Hair adorned with star clips, braids with bangs framing her face, and shoes matching her color scheme, Shi has a neat and comfy composure.

“I love dressing up, it makes me feel like… a girl. I think it’s so fun to make myself look pretty and be like my own dress-up doll,” Shi admitted.

She is a firm believer that looking good ensues in feeling good. The composure of a person can tell a lot about them, the way they view themselves, their surroundings, etc. However, individuality at MUN can be exciting, viewing unique tidbits of someone in small details of their outfits or hairstyles within the ubiquity of blazers and ties.

“I express myself through my personal style and also my music and the way I put my art out for people. I’m a songwriter and I like to tell stories. I feel like for me it’s more about the story besides myself.” Shi said.

Shi definitely emulates her honest and comforting music. Bringing her unique art and talents to MUN enumerates the melting pot of MUN culture, achievers from all over Tennessee ready to bring their character and stories to the table. 

“I would describe my style as like overalls, baggy pants, overall comfy clothes. Also, “I have a single out called ‘Overalls.’ Stream ‘Overalls!’”

STREAM OVERALLS BY SOPHIA SHI!

In contrast to Sophia’s love for dressing up, Rayyan Ahmed, a junior at Arlington High School representing Venezuela, finds herself breaking out of her norm.

. “Normally I don’t dress like this, I usually wear pretty casual clothes. I’m more of a casual person, I don’t like being too fancy,” Ahmed said. 

MUN forces people out of their comfort zones in more ways than one. The formality of the conference allows people to dress in attire they may not be used to.

‘I am wearing a yellow set from Express. I usually wear darker shades and more casual clothes. I value comfort a lot in my fashion.” 

At a conference that values individuality and self-expression, MUN provides an outlet for people to show who they are. However, this is not limited to general assembly; self-expression can be found in a myriad of ways. MUN is a melting pot of unique and colorful individuals, and fashion is just one outlet that some use. 

Central African Republic: The Security Council Experience

By: Bethel Derege, Shae Camardo, and Isabella Alvarez

Faced with the United Nations Security Council, a team of delegates from Martin Luther King Jr. Magnet High School found themselves entangled in a geopolitical showdown as they championed a resolution to reclaim natural resources in the Central African Republic. Edward Shen, Owen Reynolds, Luke MacDonald, and Dillon Keegan from Martin Luther King Jr. Magnet High School, took center stage in the Security Council with their proposal, only to face a veto from a formidable adversary—Russia.

Titled “A Resolution to Reclaim Natural Resources,” the proposal resonated with the plight of the Central African Republic, a nation historically stripped of its resources and autonomy. The delegates zeroed in on the Ndassima Gold Mine, a lucrative asset currently under the control of the Russian private military contractor, Wagner Group.

 The resolution, 23-3-12, laid out a comprehensive plan. It called for the gradual phasing out of Wagner’s influence, the deployment of a UN peacekeeping force, and substantial funding for vocational programs and landmine removal equipment.

At the heart of the MLK delegates’ argument was the fundamental unfairness of other nations profiting from the natural resources of the Central African Republic. Their proposal sought not only to address historical exploitation but also to bolster the country’s economy through the responsible management of its resources.

The MLK team’s selection for the Security Council was not arbitrary. Their keen interest in investing in the African economies and development, particularly those under the control of European forces, aligned with the broader goals of the Security Council. It was a recognition of their potential to contribute meaningfully to the discourse on resource reclamation.

The delegates experienced the thrill of victory when their proposal secured a 9-6 vote in the Security Council. However, the elation was short-lived as Russia, wielding its permanent member veto power, brought its aspirations to a screeching halt. 

For Luke MacDonald, a first-timer in the Security Council, stepping into the high-stakes arena was nerve-wracking. In contrast, Owen Reynolds, a seasoned Model United Nations veteran, expressed excitement at the prospect of addressing the urgent need for UN peace forces in resource reclamation.

     As the events unfolded, the veto underscored the geopolitical complexities and power dynamics within the United Nations. Delegate Owen Reynolds even said it was “On brand for Russia!”

       The spotlight of the Security Council remains firmly on the determination to navigate the twists and turns of international diplomacy. For these delegates, it means ultimately seeking justice for the Central African Republic. To any delegates that get a chance to partake in the Security Council this weekend, these delegates send you off with parting advice, “The key is to be confident!”

Antioch High School: The Power of Youth in Government

By Oliver Molina

Antioch High school, located in outer Nashville is mostly known for its lackluster stats. According to greatschools.org Antioch is rated a 2/10. College readiness 2/10, Student progress 2/10 , Equity 1/10 , and Test scores are 1/10. These scores were all below average and this builds a stigma of Antioch being an underperforming school. For 7 years Antioch has been known as a school filled with students who don’t care for education. This stigma is not at all true. We have students that truly care but they don’t have the right resources. The fact Antioch high is a public school means they can’t just make a class for YIG/MUN, so they decide between in-school meetings which are very difficult due to conflicting with class time and other clubs, and doing after school is hard too because people don’t have rides or the time they might have a job or go babysit their siblings. Other factors like financial situations stop students from Antioch from joining clubs like YIG. Many students in Antioch High want to learn and join clubs but can’t and it gets overlooked by everyone outside of Antioch.

The Propaganda against Antioch High

Recently, a blog titled “Antioch neighborhood terrorized by students
skipping school”. This hurt the AHS student body and AHS as a whole. The students who commit crimes, cut class and do anything to make the news. Therefore the majority of the students that want to learn, go to conferences and represent their schools. The real Antioch does not get noticed by the media enough to be noticed for their hard work and efforts. Those same students get ignored by many others, but YIG helps those students by giving recognition and information.

The Interviews

Youssoupha Charles

OM – “Why do you think Antioch has a bad reputation?”
YC – “ I think Antioch has a bad reputation because we are in a lower income area and in lower
income areas we tend to have students who aren’t able to afford things there is a higher
crime rate and a lot of those times we get overlooked because we are lower income”
OM – “ How does YIG help out Antioch from an educational standpoint?”
YC – I think YIG can be very beneficial to Antioch because as you can see alot of our students
are ready standing out we are asking a whole lot of questions I think this is really just character
building and why Antioch stands out and I also believe this also gives another opportunity to see
careers and give them a lot of guidance on how professional you can be.”
OM – “How can you help out Antioch?”
YC – “ I already made strides to help out Antioch. Currently, I have a website called AHS
NewsBears which basically meant to raise the reading levels of our students and while also
giving intriguing stories that capture their attention”

Demaruis Webster
OM – “ Why do you think Antioch has a bad reputation?”
DW – “ Antioch has a bad reputation because normally the more negative students stand out
more because they are going out and going to jail and vandalizing property when the mass
majority of Antioch students are actually in school doing school they are just unrecognized
because what they are doing is good and the media only promotes negativity.”
OM – “ How can YIG help out Antioch in an educational Standpoint?”
Dw – “ I think is very important for Antioch as gives people from Antioch an opportunity for
downtown Nashville and how governing works in downtown nashville it gives you the chance to
meet new people and be more like minded and respectful so it takes away all that negativity.’
OM- “ How can you help out Antioch”
DW- “ What can I do to improve Antioch is hard because Antioch is a very good school overall.
I believe we just need a little more teachers that actually respect and like the students and if we
can get teachers that like the environment that would make Antioch a top tier school.”

Abdoulaye Charles

OM – “ Why do you think Antioch’s rep is bad”
AC- “ I feel like due to the media and other people telling us we are bad people and bad
students. I’m not declining the fact that we don’t have students that do bad stuff and get caught
,but that’s a small number compared to the numerous students that want to learn but can’t
because they are given the opportunity due to being in a lower income area. Many people told
me like I do drugs or smoke to relieve stress, not to look cool. They have to deal with stress of
school and having a lot of pressure.”
OM- “ How does YIG help Antioch in a Educational standpoint”
AC “ YIG is a branch that can help our students learn more about the laws that truly affect
them. Outside of the Bills stuff it gives them skills like communication and gives them a path of
professionalism. Our school being public means we can’t have a YIG/MUN class meaning after
school meetings not everyone can go to that which stops them from going to YIG.”
OM- “ How can you help out Antioch”
AC- I can help out Antioch by setting an example on how even though I’m from Antioch I can be
successful just like the private school kids. I can talk to them and show them that programs like
YIG help you understand life after Antioch.”

Cyrah Miller

OM -’’Why do you think Antioch high school has a bad reputation?’’

CM -“I think Antioch has a bad reputation because due to the people of color in a community
and how the stigma on how people of color act and like they’re not smart at all and there’s a
lot of people color in Antioch high school that’s why he has a bad reputation.”

OM- “How can YIG help out Antioch from an educational standpoint?”
CM – ”As a person who wasn’t really into government stuff until last year when I got into YIG.
He is also a very good educational program and it really just brings youth engagement to the
community. You learn about stuff that happens around you every single day and you may like
doing government stuff. Maybe you might not like doing government stuff but you still will have a
good time that’s a guarantee. It make you want to come back to you again like not just only you

make me want to learn more stuff outside of the classroom which will be great for in your high
school and that all starts with youth in government.”
OM- “ What can you do to improve Antioch?”
CM- “For me to improve Antioch i’ll be a friend to those who really need help those who don’t
know what they’re doing and like tell them that you don’t have to be perfect because there’s a
stigma that you need to be perfect for you to be successful which is not true.”

Akiles Pineda
OM -Why do you think Antioch has a bad reputation
AP – For the younger generation they always had a bad reputation. Back in the past a few
decades ago they didn’t have a bad rep but now they have a bad reputation for the younger
generation they are clearly lost.

OM – how do you think Yig helps Antioch in an educational standpoint
AP – YIG could actually help to exercise these students’ brains to further understand and further
develop their mind when it comes to the law and for them to understand that their voice matters
that they can be smart too

OM -What can you yourself can do to help out Antioch
AP – I feel like for myself I can help to advertise YIG and Redcon 1 for the students of Antioch.
Doing this would further help the students of Antioch find out how to properly exercise through
their brains and their body.

Abel Kebede

OM – “Why do you think Antioch’s rep is bad?”
AK – “I believe Antioch has a bad reputation because it is what it expected of the students from
people outside of the school and the students follow that expectations because thats the only
thing they hear, and if the students were given the opportunity and given a good reputation it
could help the students get to the level that we expect them to as Antioch High School.”
OM – How can YIG help Antioch in an educational standpoint
AK – “YIG can help Antioch in an educational standpoint by giving students a political
perspective. They will learn about bills and legislation and all that sort of stuff and it will expand
their knowledge in Tennessee legislation.”
OM – “How can you personally improve Antioch?
AK – “I can help personally improve Antioch by recruiting students to educational programs like
YIG , DECA , and MUN and help students become more interested in programs like this which
can in turn help them broaden their horizons.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, I believe that YIG is very helpful for a school like Antioch. We, as Antioch students, are very thankful for having this opportunity. Being allowed into youth in government, to showcase our professionalism, and talents are gifts we will cherish. Antioch, as shown in the media because of how negative they want to be about us and Antioch’s bad image, is shown through the media which puts all of Antioch away from other schools. Being pushed down removes opportunities that help other schools that get benefited from YIG and MUN. In my opinion, it is beautiful because public schools have unprivileged people that don’t get this opportunity often. This 3-day project really gave me a new standpoint on education and YIG in general.

I really had fun on this trip and I’m looking forward to next year since I am a junior. My Love and appreciation go out to the governor and my editors. They are very great and helpful people. As a person who really never got the chance to showcase professionalism and talents, I would like to thank YIG for giving me an opportunity. Giving others just like me this impeccable opportunity is the greatest thing to ever happen for me and others. It is very astonishing how you can bring people from different backgrounds and they can connect on the dot like that as well as communicate like they knew each other since the days in the sand box. I would like to thank those who I interviewed. They took the time out of their day to get interviewed about me and give really different standpoints about Antioch. They really had different opinions, some connected but it was very diverse and that’s what’s good about YIG. Having diverse people from different schools can help us relate more to one another and together become one.

Interview with Commissioner Rowan Felton

Abigail: “Hello. I’m here with Rowan Felton, the Commisioner of Environment and Conservation. At the end of the last session, a bill that would have extremely benefited the governor’s budget, and allowed the passing of other bills, had been failed. For the people who do not know, can you please recap what the bill entailed?”

Rowan: “So the bill would have implemented carbon pricing for companies that were producing oil, and it also would have implemented a midstream tax for imported oil for refineries.

That would have raised over half a billion dollars for the state of Tennessee. And you are correct, that money is being allocated to other priorities that the governor has such as education and infrastructure.”

A: “We’ve been recently told that the bill got passed the second the second session started, but what wouldn’t happened if it had gotten failed again?”

R: “So the state’s of Tennessee’s Constitution mandates that it has a balanced budget. So, without the funding from that bill, we would not have been able to passs any more bills that spent money. A large portion of the bills that passed would not have been signed into law by the governor without the passage of this bill.”

A: “How would this have affected you since as the Comissioner of Environment and Conservation?”

R: “ This would have directly affected my department because there were several well-written, very well researched bills that were spending a reasonable amount of money for what they were asking for, but that were expensive bills that needed additional funding compared to the original budget. That’s why we had to pass more dynamic legislation. It would have also significantly affected our education dynamic legislation, because that is also pretty expensive. We really needed this bill in order to be able to pay for those other bills.”

What Was the Governor’s Cabinet Bill that Failed in Blue House and What Exactly Happened?

By Alianna Jones and Trish Zheng

Controversy shook the Blue House today, when BSB/D-1, a dynamic legislative bill from the Governor’s Cabinet, failed. The goal of this bill was to reduce carbon emissions by taxing oil companies at both the point of extraction and refinement. This would bring in almost six hundred million dollars annually to the Tennessee State General Fund.

When brought in front of Blue House by sponsors Reed Hampton, Toluwakitan Akinsola, Aidan Castellanet, Lee Greeson, and John Hancock, the bill proved very divisive. According to some Blue House members, a very convincing con speaker took the floor and convinced the committee that the passage of this bill would result in raised gas prices across the nation, resulting in an entire side of the room failing the bill.

Another common theory is that Aden Cobb, a delegate in the Blue House, convinced everyone to fail the bill. Cobb stated in an interview that he didn’t like how the sponsors represented BSB/D-1 because they seemed unsure and uninformed about the topic. Others have come to Cobb’s defense, sharing that they also believed the bill was poorly represented in the House. 

Governor Will Severn immediately took action against the failure of the bill, warning the Blue Senate and House that he would not sign any of their bills into law, due to the failed bill making up a large portion of the possible budget. Many were outraged at this, not wanting their bills to fail due to a lack of funds.

At the end of the session, comments about the controversy arose. Word has spread regarding the situation in the Blue House Chamber. There was a mix of opinions. Some thought it was unfair for the Blue Senate to be dragged into something the Blue House stirred up. Some sided with Governor Severn, saying his decision was reasonable. The bill was a main source of money; without it, the budget plan would greatly suffer. 

After the Blue House reconvened, there was a vote to reconsider BSB/D-1. The whole situation came to a close when Blue House finally passed the bill 95-13. The bill was then passed to Blue Senate. If it passes, it will be signed into law. 

The Life of a Lobbyist: Organizing a Dynamic Legislative Bill

By Alianna Jones

Today, I embarked on a journey to find out more about the Lobbyists and how exactly dynamic legislature works. My hunt for Lobbyists led me to White House, where I found Avery Gill and Bailey Marshall, who were on a search of their own. I was unsure of what I was in for—I had very little idea of what the Lobbyist even did (aside from, well, lobbying). 

I spoke with Bailey Marshall about what the component had been working on the last couple of days, to which she answered: “We have spent most of our time yesterday writing technical questions and speeches for the bills.” Then, to give me a better idea of the component overall, Avery Gill added that they “write bills throughout the conference that support the interests of the Governor and Head Lobbyist,” as well as connecting with others to fix “ problems in promising bills to make them better fit our goals and budget.”

They trekked across the conference—from the capitol building to Cordell Hull to the capitol building again—in search of well-spoken delegates to present their dynamic legislative bill to end book bans in Tennessee. I sat with them ask they observed the delegates of the blue house and blue senate, and they found the perfect groups to present their bill in Senate, with hopes that it will make its way to the House. They also had several quick meetings with officers to get opinions on the potential presenters.

Avery Gill and Bailey Marshall looking for candidates to represent their dynamic bill.

I also learned that even Lobbyists, with all of their knowledge and power over the passing or failing of bills, slip up sometimes. I stood by as an impromptu meeting was held in response to the lobbyist duo asking the wrong person to present their bill — life lesson: make sure that the person recommending a delegate actually knows what that delegate is wearing. But all turned out well in the end, so keep an eye out for Gill and Marshall’s dynamic bill.

Currently, there are two bills on the docket for dynamic legislature: one for legally defining Munchausen’s Syndrome as not a mental illness in the court of law, and another requiring a multicultural education course to be taken before one can receive an education degree. More bills will surely follow these, as the Lobbyists push forward in assembling their teams and writing their new bills into existence.