This brings me to my next point: small states have unique
problems. We struggle with kids even enrolling in Latin, something
that’s directly reflected in our convention attendance numbers. In
addition, since only a few schools sustain our entire state’s JCL
chapter, limited participation can wreck us severely. However, our
biggest problem is staying connected to the rest of the JCL. Despite
being a state officer, I was never informed about the individual
contests, the spirit and service activities, nor even what a
Parliamentarian was supposed to do (sorry, Julia). Without a solid
internal structure (sometimes even lacking a Constitution), small-state
JCLs can become incredibly messy.
I believe that small states are the most vulnerable in the
organization, and that there are numerous ways that you can help to
keep us alive. First, interact with our state pages. Follow our
Instagrams – Arizona and New Mexico have great ones. Like our
Facebook pages. Visit our websites! Second, reach out to us. Wonder
if our states have a JCL chapter? Look up our websites, find our
officers, and send us emails. Help us get connected to the rest of the
community. If it hadn’t been for a few JCLers who literally stalked me
down and messaged me on Facebook, I would never have been as
involved as I am today. Thirdly, and most importantly, keep us in the
loop. If you ever meet a small state delegate, talk to us about the
awesome things your state is doing, and hopefully they will inspire us.
The more that we as a community work to include our small, oft-
ignored states, the stronger the JCL spirit will become.
Reach out to smaller states!
Check out the NVJCL on
Instagram (@nevadajcl)
and Facebook (@nvjcl)!
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