The roots of the Amity Youth Dems can be traced back to the 2022 Amity Budget Referendums. Even before the caucus was officially established, Chairman Liam Roselle was a consistent presence at board meetings, passionately speaking out in defense of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies. As discussions about education, representation, and equity took center stage in the community, he became one of the most vocal student advocates, ensuring that young people had a say in decisions that would directly impact their schools and futures. His speeches were not just about policy, they were about principle, calling for a more inclusive and representative local government that listened to all voices, especially those of students.
However, Liam’s activism did not go unchallenged. As he continued to push for policies that supported marginalized communities, he found himself in direct confrontation with opposing party leaders who sought to roll back DEI initiatives and limit youth participation in the political process. Instead of backing down, Liam faced these challenges head-on, engaging in debates, challenging misinformation, and demanding accountability from local leaders who claimed to represent the interests of their constituents. Through these encounters, he saw firsthand the need for organized youth involvement in politics. Not just as passive observers, but as active participants with the power to shape their community.
Recognizing that many of his peers were politically aware but lacked clear pathways to civic engagement, Liam decided to take action. He approached the Bethany Democratic Town Committee with a bold idea: the creation of a youth caucus dedicated to increasing political participation among young people. An organization that would not only register and educate young voters but also serve as a bridge between students and local government. The AYDC would provide opportunities for young people to engage in meaningful political discussions, meet local candidates, and advocate for issues that directly affected their lives.
The Bethany DTC embraced the idea, giving Liam the green light to develop a concrete plan. From there, the AYDC took shape as a structured, goal-oriented group with a clear mission: to empower young people through education, outreach, and advocacy. With a roadmap that included voter registration initiatives, town hall events, and direct engagement with local leaders, the caucus quickly gained traction. The AYDC became not just an extension of the DTC but a movement in its own right, a space where young voices were amplified, and where the next generation of leaders could begin their journey in civic engagement.
What started as one student’s determination to speak up in board meetings has now grown into a full-fledged organization dedicated to increasing youth voter participation, making local politics accessible, and ensuring that young people in the community have a seat at the table. The AYDC stands as a testament to the power of youth activism and the impact that informed, engaged students can have when they come together with a shared purpose.