Dec 01 Student Mental Health Advocacy Day

Dec 01h in Bold Voices by

(December 1, 2023)

On Wednesday November 15, 2023, I had the honor and privilege to support The Jewish Healthcare Foundation and over 100 students from across the state at the state capitol for Student Mental Health Advocacy Day. The majority of these young people who traveled to Harrisburg are members of the PA Youth Advocacy Network, which is sponsored and managed by the Jewish Healthcare Foundation. The students met with more than 25 legislators to advocate for excused mental health days.

Senators John Kane and Judy Schwank teamed up to introduce legislation that would permit K-12 students to take mental health days without a doctor’s excuse or without an official mental health diagnosis. Senate Bill 866 was co-written by teens coordinated by the PA Youth Advocacy Network. Representative Napoleon Nelson has introduced a companion bill in the PA House, HB 1519. Representative Nelson met with the students to discuss the House version of the mental health bill in detail and identified ways in which students can advocate for the bill.

Jewish Healthcare Foundation did a wonderful job organizing the Student Mental Health Advocacy Day. The teachers, advisors and other chaperones supported all of the youth at the Capitol. The legislative champions were incredibly warm and welcoming to the students. The day was only as successful and impactful as it was, though, because of the amazing youth advocates. They shared stories, asked questions, and participated in the press conference by speaking, holding signs, or just standing in solidarity. I was so impressed with each and every one of them and I’m grateful for the opportunity to advocate alongside these future leaders.

For more about the events and message of Student Mental Health Advocacy Day, check out these press releases from the Jewish Healthcare Foundation and from Senator Kane’s office.

Heather Wilkes, Allies for Children Policy Director