Stephanie Brosig: Blogs

CHCI-Walmart Shadowing Day: Please share what this experience was like for you to work with a “mentor” and learn what a “day in the life” of an industry professional was like.

The biggest advantage of spending the day at Walmart was being able to see the humanity behind one of the world's biggest and most prosperous companies. The friendly, helpful customer service that is typical of Walmart associates was definitely reflected in the legislative staff. My mentor for the day not only allowed me to shadow him, but rather gave me the opportunity to participate in the events of the day. While the corporate office was a busy environment, the sense of community was present as we were welcomed to ask questions and encouraged to integrate ourselves as much as possible into the professional atmosphere of the office. While in past weeks we have principally focused on learning about non-profit and government agencies, being exposed to an industrial office was beneficial as it gave me yet another perspective on the role and impact that non-government organizations have on the federal legislative processes and financial markets.

"Share how you “re-energize,” “re-charge” and “explore new experiences” to get away from your daily work life here in the Washington, DC area"

During the hectic period in which the Senators and Members of Congress are on the hill, much of our mental and physical energy is consumed by attending briefings, organizing hearings, analyzing legislation, and the other important (both small and large) tasks that form the daily work day. On recess however, the work atmosphere is significantly less hectic, and we shift our gears from high-speed to neutral. While the work continues even while the Members are in their district office and the staff remains occupied with their large work load, the atmosphere is calmer. I took advantage of this time to work on my relationships with my coworkers and the other interns. Essential to my mental, emotional, and even physical well-being are my interactions with those around me. DC is an amazing backdrop for this type of escapes as the sight-seeing and entertainment options are endless. The best thinking is done while walking, so it’s no surprise that this past few weekends have involved a great deal of familiarizing ourselves with the City and have resulted in fun conversations and happy memories. Similarly, back at the office I notice that the staff recharges by taking the time to interact with each other. Instead of quickly saying hello and getting straight to work, the question “how are you?” was actually answered with detailed answers. As simple as that may sound, I think that the office was truly re-energized as a result of our conversations. To get away from my busy work/school life I always try to remember that my relationships with others are what make me happy and help me relieve stress. Additionally, the beautiful weather and sights of DC are just another reason for people to talk and enjoy the city together.

History was made this past Sunday, March 21, 2010 with the passing of the largest health care bill in this country

Although I was not physically present at the Capitol when the actual voting took place, during the weeks that I have been working on the Hill, it seems that little else has been the focus of so much attention. As I watched the online streaming video of the voting on Sunday night, the array of emotions that I’ve felt everyday to a subdued degree became stronger and stronger. The thoughts that I experienced, however, were largely shaped by the day’s earlier event. Participating in the Immigration Reform Rally on Sunday afternoon was an emotional whirlwind. I was inspired by the masses that demanded change from President Obama and I felt both pride and awe at the sheer magnitude and power in numbers of the Latino community. As we chanted pro-immigrant and reform towards the Capitol, we saw the masses protesting the Health Care Bill across the mall. Seeing the crowd waving the Gadsden flag (the historical yellow flag with the slogan ‘Don’t Tread on Me’ at the bottom), which has been adopted by the Tea Party movement as a contemporary symbol of government discontent, triggered memories of the week’s atmosphere in the office. While I am a strong believer of individual participation in the governmental process, I don’t believe that violence, including verbal aggression, is a responsible or respectful means of communicating a message or opinion. While some of the publics’ concerns regarding the controversial health care bill may have been well founded, this did not justify any type of hostile approach to discussing their concerns with office staff. Rude language, disrespectful phone calls, and unprofessional tone of voice does not validate or contribute to a constituent’s message or opinion. Based on my experience, it seems that most of those complaining about the government health care reform were those who did not in fact fall under a socioeconomic group that suffers any injustices under the current system. Historically, the United States is not a ‘welfare state’, but time and time again it has proven to be dedicated to strides towards equality. This Robin Hood approach of “taking from the rich to give to the poor” is a morally superior response that permits for equal opportunity and equal protection to all. Those who are vulnerable due to their socioeconomic status and to their health conditions should not be subject to greater disadvantages and exemption from the best services available. When the health care reform bill was successfully passed, I felt a sense of satisfaction and most importantly, of hope that President Barack Obama and those present at the immigration rally evoked.

If you had Robert Groves’ job as the Director of the Census and given the rapid growth of the Latino population, what changes would you implement to encourage more participation for Latino families?

The current strategies employed by the Census Department demonstrate a commitment to combine technological tools and good old-fashioned word of mouth. The visibility of advertisements via popular media outlets such as radios, televisions, internet, newspapers, and magazines appeal to a wide variety of people, especially as these materials are available in both English and Spanish. Rather than change the Census Department’s approach to increase Census knowledge and participation among Latino families, I would expand on those existing by encouraging more grassroots efforts. As the Census has over 2000 partnerships with local organization, the willingness of community groups to encourage the Census is present. I believe that one vital aspect that has been overlooked however is the college age population. If the Census were to hire students to form Census Awareness groups and campaigns at their universities and colleges, young students would not only learn more about the census for their own sakes, but would ideally also be inspired to educate their own families, their hometown communities, and the communities that they are a part of while at school. Thus, in order to create an effective network of people that are informed about and ultimately, participate in the Census effort we must also encourage youth participation. Seeing as how this age group is especially keen with virtually every type of technology, I strongly believe in this generation’s potential to create powerful organizations to promote the Census.

What has been the most challenging moment in your internship experience? What has been the most exciting moment in your experience?

Thus far, my internship experience on Capitol Hill has been a perpetual cycle of exhilaration, exhaustion, excitement, and anxiety. While I consider myself to be adjusted to the atmosphere of this working environment, the day-to-day fluctuations in traffic cause feelings of anticipation every morning. While traveling to and from work is not particularly challenging (unless of course, the metro system is fluctuating in reliability), the traffic in the office, with people coming in and out of meetings and the phone constantly ringing, varies daily. Because working on Capitol Hill means that influential people are deciding on issues of great importance, the feedback from constituents correlates with the issues on-hand. With all the passion, however, also comes stress. The most challenging moments at work are the times or days when the office atmosphere is hectic, however this in turn stimulates greater feelings of satisfaction at the end of the day. So far, the most exciting moment during my internship was when I successfully completed the first project I was assigned and presented it to the Chief of Staff.

What you think the role of grassroots organizing is in the political process of this country?

The term ‘grassroots’ suggests an organic process that sprouts from the composition of the community and their needs and desires.  Grassroots organizing is another mechanism that works to balance the larger political structures.  It does so by incorporating all members of the community and encouraging participation from all people regardless of age, gender, and socioeconomic status.  Grassroots organizing allows people to voice their concerns in a welcoming environment and to create responses that are tailored to their specific community.

What was your first week like working on Capitol Hill?

During the first week of my congressional internship I learned many things about DC, about our political system, about the district of the Congressman I am working with, and, most importantly, about myself. Firstly, I exercised my ability to adapt quickly to a new environment as I was given responsibilities that were accompanied with new expectations. While I have prior experience working with various community organizations and professional offices, I’m glad to be able to observe the unique dynamics of an office that operates under a strictly regulated process (as hearings, briefings, meetings, votes, and other functions adhere to a schedule) and simultaneously takes in stride the hectic environment of an extremely busy institution. That is, what was most interesting to me was how Capitol Hill is an epicenter that houses some of the world’s most influential people and deals with pressing matters, yet is also a place where constituents and everyday citizens can engage with their representatives. The highlight of my first week was being able to attend briefings on the Hill. I especially enjoyed those that covered topics that I was not previously informed about.

What new perspectives have you gained on Latinos in the U.S.?

The primary message that was continually reinforced during Orientation Week was the existence of gaps in our community.  That is, while there are plenty of resources and opportunities available to Latinos, there exists a disconnect between the person’s ability to benefit fully from these opportunities.  For example, ‘disadvantaged’ students are able to attend university if their grades demonstrate that they will be able successfully to complete a degree.  Merely allowing students to be admitted to universities does not do anything to increase the chances of their being accepted, or their success once admitted.  It doesn’t place them on equal footing with students who, between well-funded extra-curricular activities and top-rated high schools, have been set-up for academic achievement their entire lives.  Social justice means good teachers and good programs in schools in regardless of the socioeconomic status of the areas, so students in disadvantaged communities have training that will equip them to do well when they go to college.  Providing equal opportunities without also providing the proper resources or attention to ensure that they utilize or benefit from them properly reflects a gap in our system.  On a related note, the 2010 Census is important for these reasons.  If we do not paint an accurate picture of the United States, then we are failing on our duty as civic members to participate in such an important factor in maintaining the well being of our communities.  From discussion with staff involved with the federal census campaign, the other interns and I have learned that we must work together with the community, leaders, and federal agencies to ensure that the necessary resources and funds are allocated for us to minimize the achievement gaps and increase the number of programs available in our communities.