Written by CAPA-MC Reporter Kathleen Li
Preceptor: Julie Yang
Introduction
On January 20th, 2020, CAPA JRC (Chinese American Parents Association Junior Reporter Club) traveled to Annapolis to learn about the Maryland legislative process. The JRC toured the Maryland State House and discovered the building’s historical and present significance. In addition, they interviewed Lily Qi, the Maryland State Delegate for District 15, to gain an inside look into what happens in the Maryland General Assembly.
CAPA JRC visits the Maryland State House, which houses the Maryland General Assembly, the Governor, and the Lieutenant Governor. It is the oldest State House in the United States that is still used today, having been constructed from 1772 to 1779.
(Photo by Lucy Wu)
CAPA JRC learns about the history behind the Maryland State House through an informative and fascinating guided tour.
(Photo by Lucy Wu)
A new section for the State House was built from 1902 to 1906 from Italian marble. The divide between the old wood and plaster and new veined marble can be seen in this photo.
(Photo by Claire Yu)
The JRC members tours the House of Delegates chamber, learning about notable historical events concerning the Maryland legislature.
(Photo by Lucy Wu)
The Maryland House of Delegates and Senate have rows and rows of seats for their members. The JRC learns about the process of passing a bill and how the buttons on each desk help delegates and senators vote.
(Photo by Lucy Wu)
The ceilings of the House of Delegates and Senatorial Chambers are adorned with beautiful Tiffany Stained Glass.
(Photo by Claire Yu)
The JRC learns about the construction of the Maryland State House and dome. Although the dome is closed off to the public, there are many pictures portraying the dome from the inside, outside and up close.
(Photo by Lucy Wu)
The Stairwell Room gives insight into the State House in the 18th Century, providing information on significant historical events. CAPA JRC members peruse original historical documents and photos.
(Photo by Emily and Fengkai Zhang)
The Old Senate Chamber has been recreated into its look from November 1783 – August 1784, when the United States Congress previously met. JRC strolls through the room that depicts General George Washington resigning his military position on December 23, 1783.
(Photo by Emily and Fengkai Zhang)
CAPA JRC members walk down the corridors of the legislative building, admiring beautiful paintings painted by Maryland citizens hanging on its walls.
(Photo by Lucy Wu)
Lily Qi, representing District 15 and Montgomery County in the Maryland State House, gives the JRC a detailed look into her life as a delegate. She discusses her passion for change, policies advancements and improved daily life.
(Photo by Lucy Wu)
Reporters listen intently and actively ask questions during the interview while photographers take pictures and videos. The JRC learns about how students can get politically involved in their community.
(Photo by Claire Yu)
CAPA JRC snaps a photo with Lily Qi in the Montgomery County legislative room. What a great way to wrap up a long day of touring the Maryland State House!
(Photo by Claire Yu)
Conclusion
Through this trip to the Maryland State House, CAPA JRC members not only learned about the meaningful history of the building, but also gained an inside look into policy-making at the state level. The JRC built upon their political knowledge from the previous year’s trip to the US Capitol and White House, where they had learned about the national legislative and executive branches. After the interview with Lily Qi, the JRC discovered ways that they could make change in their own community. All in all, it was a great way to spend Martin Luther King Jr. Day ‒ by learning more about making positive changes in one’s country.
This article was provided by Chinese American Parents Association Junior Reporter Club (CAPA JRC) with members who interviewed, audio recorded, wrote, translated, and video recorded. CAPA JRC has 19 Montgomery County middle to high school students. They have created a bilingual platform delivering news and serving the community.
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