Submitted by Sarah Rubinton

On February 9th, twenty Massachusetts students came together for a day of connecting and training. 

Barbara Hildt, a former state representative and a "Help Increase the Peace Program"  (HIPP), leader, worked with students on advocacy, lobbying, and peaceable relationship skills. 

Students reflected on their own perceptions of politicians, and the ways in which they are perceived by political leaders.  Together, they developed and practiced strategies to effectively message about the Department of Peace. 

The day concluded with time to reflect and appreciate each other, and to plan for the future of the Student Peace Alliance in Massachusetts.