Happy Friday from #OneUtah, a weekly update from the office of Gov. Spencer J. Cox. Here’s your recap of what we did this week, what's on the horizon, and more. Reply to this email with any questions or suggestions regarding the newsletter. And thank you for subscribing!

Utah Boys State

On Monday morning we enjoyed joining the participants, veterans and volunteers at Utah Boys State! 

Boys State is an opportunity for young men to learn about civic engagement, citizenship and patriotism. The high school students are divided into fictitious cities in which they elect a mayor and a city government. As they move through the week, they elect a Legislature, write, debate and pass bills. They also elect a governor and lieutenant governor who will return next year to govern Utah Boys State. Two others will be elected as senators who will represent Utah at Boys Nation in Washington, DC, this summer. 

It was great to visit with many who will be our future leaders. Learn more about Utah Boys State here.

Collaboration with Morocco

Did you know that Utah has a longstanding relationship with the Kingdom of Morocco? Twenty years to be exact. The Utah National Guard is in Morocco for Africa Lion, which is U.S. Africa Command’s largest joint combined annual exercise. Utah’s participating Soldiers and Airmen are training in Morocco, and we got to join them this week! We were able to see our humanitarian partners, visit with our troops and meet with officials. 

Morocco is a key partner of the Utah National Guard, and is the United States' oldest ally in the world, and we’re glad we were able to visit and keep up relationships. Next week, we’re headed to Europe for our trade mission in Paris and London. You can get updates here. 

Utah moves primary and general elections

After a near-unanimous nod by the Legislature, Utah voters across the state will cast their primary ballots on Sept. 5 before the General Election on Nov. 21.

Wednesday’s special session set in motion an extraordinary solution to hold municipal elections in conjunction with a special election to fill the 2nd Congressional District.

We’re grateful for our partners across the state who worked closely to develop an innovative solution to an unprecedented election challenge.

Davis County breaks ground on massive youth sports complex

Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson and leaders from across Davis County plunged their shovels into dirt on Tuesday to kick off a 15-month project that officials say will inject $100 million annually into Davis County communities.

The former home of the Davis County Fair is set to become a state-of-the-art youth sports complex called the Western Sports Park. The lieutenant governor lauded the foresight of local leaders who say the massive campus will become a tourism hub where young people can compete, grow, and build community.

We can’t wait to attend the ribbon cutting in 2024.

Celebrate World Refugee Day 

This weekend, Utah’s celebrating our 19th Annual World Refugee Day. With more than 65,000 refugees in Utah, this is a wonderful time to experience new cultures and traditions and connect with our refugee friends and neighbors. 

You're invited to join in two days of festivities at Big Cottonwood Regional Park (4300 S. 1300 E. Millcreek). The celebration includes free activities for families, music and entertainment, storytelling, a global market featuring refugee entrepreneurs and the chance to sample incredible international cuisine. Events run Friday, 6-10 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Learn more here.

How to travel responsibly in Utah

Summer is here and is the busiest travel season for Utah! That means that it is extra important to travel responsibly. Small actions taken by each traveler add up to protect our natural wonders and communities! It is also important to consider safety for you and your group. Here are a few questions to ask yourself next time you travel: 

• Am I familiar with Leave No Trace principles?

• Does this activity put me at risk for potential rescue, straining local resources?

• Am I doing what I can to avoid crowded locations?

• Have I prepared for limited services in remote areas, and taken into account the abilities of others in my group?

• Are there ways I can make a positive impact on the communities I plan to visit?

To see more specific articles geared towards your trip click here.

ICYMI

• Happy Flag Day, Utah! We hope everyone took time on the 14th to honor this symbol of liberty, justice and hope.

• Lt. Gov. Henderson lauded the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the Indian Child Welfare Act. The state of Utah has long supported the federal law.

Coming up

• June 17: We’re headed to Paris for our Trade Mission in Europe. Stay tuned for details.

• June 18: Happy Father’s Day, Utah! We’re grateful for the honorable men dedicated to their families.

• June 21: We’re continuing our European Trade Mission in London. More on that next week! 

• June 23: Utah tribal leaders will attend the 17th annual Governor's Native American Summit at Utah Valley University.

Get involved!

Looking for a new job opportunity? From great employee benefits to versatile work schedules, the career opportunities with the state are truly endless. Join Team Utah today! 

Those looking to volunteer can also consider more than 300 boards and commissions. Find out which openings are available and how you can get involved here!

Get in touch!