My name is Gracie, and I’m currently serving as Baltimore Council’s damn proud 78th Mazkirah. My love for social media, connection, and outreach made my term as chapter Mazkirah incredible, and inspired me to continue my passion on a higher level. But, the role of Mazkirah includes something else, something huge: governance. In BBYO, so much of our organization depends on democracy and learning how to be active members of our political world. But, as chapter Mazkirah, I could never go to a council business meeting, and I didn’t even know what the term “parlipro” meant until after I caucused.

Unfortunately, for many councils and regions, including my own, governance isn’t a topic focused on enough. My board decided to change that. At our first meeting of the term, we set goals for ourselves, and we collectively agreed that our number one priority this year is to bring governance back to our council in a big way. Admittedly, I barely knew anything about this part of BBYO, so my co and I got to work.

Since that day, we’ve had meetings with our presidents, our international counterparts and staff, and are preparing for our first council business meeting of the year in just a few weeks. Our board has worked together to research governance and parliamentary procedure. We’ve made social media posts, info videos, and talked to our chapters so they know what to expect.

Even years into my time in BBYO, there’s always more to learn. Governance has become one of my favorite parts of my role, and I can’t wait to share more of our tradition and ritual with other members of our council. I hope that the work we’re doing this term will set up Baltimore Council for a rich future, and allow impactful changes to be made for our chapters.

If you’re reading this, take this as a sign to go for it. Run for the position, submit the legislation, and join the chapter. Perfection isn’t expected. You don’t have to know everything, and everyone is always still learning. If you’re willing to take the risk and commit to something you’re passionate about, the knowledge and practice will come with time.