By Leondrea Johnson

Last year, I attended Children’s Advocacy Day for the first time. I am part of the REFORM Louisville team, and we were making plans for going. All the preparation work made me feel a little nervous about talking with legislators. 

Walking into the Capitol building on the morning of Children’s Advocacy Day, it was a little overwhelming. There were so many people in line to go through security. But I was excited to go in with my team and see what we could do. 

I was more excited to meet new people, build connections, and learn more about my state and the laws being passed. Being there in the building made it feel real. I didn’t expect to be around so much power. I wanted to see what the legislators from our community were thinking about their concerns for our community and the justice system.

We got to meet with Rep. Herron that day. She was so welcoming and encouraging. It gave me more confidence with the listening ear and the fact that she had concerns just like me for our community. Talking with her gave us the confidence to go and speak with other legislators too. Everyone in the office seemed truly happy to see us and talk with us. 

I would encourage people to come to Children’s Advocacy Day to advocate for Kentucky kids and just to enjoy the opportunity to be in the presence of people who can change things for your community.

Leondrea Johnson is a member of REFORM Louisville.