Happy Wednesday, John!

This month, we’re celebrating young people leading the charge and making it clear that the future belongs to us. In Texas, MOVE Texas led a powerful Youth Capitol Takeover alongside other youth-led advocacy groups that are a part of the Texas Youth Power Alliance (TYPA), flooding the statehouse with young voices demanding real change and a government that truly serves the people. Meanwhile in Colorado, New Era Colorado turned Tax Day into a rallying cry for economic justice at the “Families Over Billionaires” rally, pushing for a progressive tax system that centers communities.

Also, don’t miss Dakota’s latest Substack piece, where he dives into Gen Z’s political mindset. Drawing on fresh insights from AYA’s research collaboration with Priorities USA, he argues that progressives must meet young voters where they already are online, delivering content that resonates authentically, builds trust, and drives action.

From the Capitol steps and city streets to digital spaces, youth organizers are showing up, turning up, and making it impossible to ignore their power. This is what building a new future looks like — and we’re just getting started.

Youth Capitol Takeover in Austin

On April 15 and 16, our Affiliate MOVE Texas (as part of the Texas Youth Power Alliance) helped bring together young Texans from every corner of the state for their annual Youth Capitol Takeover at the Texas Capitol. This year’s rally, aptly titled DIY Democracy, mobilized over 700 young leaders and students to protest legislation aimed at restricting freedom of speech and expression, undermining voting rights, and harming marginalized communities.

This included speaking out against HB 5337—a harmful proof of citizenship bill that would create new barriers to voting and disproportionately impact young, low-income, and immigrant communities. MOVE Texas and their allies made it clear that this bill is a direct attack on democracy and that young Texans will not stand by as their rights are stripped away.

Over the course of two days, participants marched to the Capitol to demand action, met with lawmakers to advocate for policies that protect their communities, and took part in workshops and trainings designed to build lasting power beyond the event. They also celebrated the strength of their movement through drag performances, storytelling, and live music—centering joy as a form of resistance.

Through their collective action at the Capitol, young Texans made it clear: they are not just the future—they are the leaders of today, and they are ready to defend their rights, shape policy, and build a more just Texas for all.

Coloradans Rise Up for a Fair Economy

Coloradans made it clear this Tax Day: it's time to put families over billionaires! At the Families Over Billionaires rally, young people, organizers, community members, and advocates took to the streets to demand a tax system that works for all people — not just the ultra-wealthy. With powerful speeches, bold signs, and unstoppable energy, the rally highlighted the urgent need for investments in education, healthcare, housing, and the future we deserve. It was a strong reminder that when we show up and speak out, we can challenge the status quo and push for real change.

As part of this coalition, our Affiliate New Era Colorado showed up in force, bringing their incredible energy to the movement! Their leadership, creativity, and fierce commitment to economic justice helped make the rally a true powerhouse moment. As the next generation of changemakers, young people’s presence at the Families Over Billionaires rally proved once again how critical young people are in the fight for a fairer, more equitable Colorado. Learn more about the Families Over Billionaires platform here!

The fight isn’t over — and our voice matters. Staying informed, speaking out, and showing up are all powerful acts right now. Together, we can build the future we deserve. Thanks for being in this with us — more to come soon!

Selasi Tagbor Morales

Communications Coordinator