Hazel Praise Aqua testifies on civic education for immigrants
Hazel Praise Aqua, a Lehman College political science graduate from Ghana, says she had to relearn how government works in the U.S. She supports Res 620, Res 451, and Res 418 so all students can access civic education and recognition.
Good afternoon, Chair Joseph and, you know, its end members.
Okay.
Good afternoon, Chair Joseph and Dinowitz and members of the New York City Council's Committees on Higher Education and Education.
My name is Hazel Praise Aqua.
I'm a political science graduate of Lehman College, a student advocate here on behalf of the CUNY University Student Senate, and someone...
Who believes that civic education should be an opportunity available to every student, not just a select few.
When I moved to the United States from Ghana, I realized that understanding government was not something I could take for granted.
I had to relearn how the government worked here, how policies were made, how to navigate civic institutions, and how to understand my rights and responsibilities in a new system.
That experience taught me something important.
We cannot expect young people to participate in a system they have not been given the tools to understand.
My journey studying political science and serving in student government, the CUNY University Student Senate, and other student leadership roles has showed me the power of civic education.
When students understand how decisions are made,
They begin to recognize that their voices matter and that they have the power to influence change.
That is why I support the expansion of the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness across New York City public high schools.
Resolution 0620 is an important step toward ensuring that every eligible student has the opportunity to learn this.
recognition, regardless of which public
high school they attend.
Access to civic education and recognition of civic achievement should not depend on a student's zip code or school resources.
I also support Resolution 0451 and the Next Gen Civics Act.
Students need more than textbooks and lectures.
They need hands-on experiences that teach them how to engage with their communities, understand public policy, advocate for themselves, and turn their ideas into meaningful action.
Finally, Resolution 0401A addresses an important next step, ensuring that students who end the SEAL receive appropriate
College Credit at CUNY.
If we tell students that civic engagement matters, we must recognize the work that they have already done.
Their learning, leadership, and service should have value as they transition into higher education.
Civic education should not end at graduation.
It should create a pathway from the classroom to college, from college to community leadership, and from community leadership to lasting change.
I stand here today as someone who had to learn a new system, find my voice within it, and discover the power of participation.
I want every student, whether they were born here or came from somewhere else, to have that same opportunity without unnecessary barriers.
Our young people are not simply future leaders.
They are members of our communities right now, and they deserve the knowledge, resources, and recognition to help them shape their future.
Thank you for your time and consideration.