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Chris Hardy
Bio Statement
I currently head the Bergen County chapter which is working on organizing protests and a door to door campaign to raise awareness about the unconstitutionality of Kyleigh’s Law. I created a student defense program in my school to help students who feel that they have been wrongfully accused of an infraction. In this “Student Lawyer program” students who fear unjust treatment from the school can enlist a pro-bono student who will defend them to the Board of ED. In addition to my exploits with NYRA, I have personally done many things to advance the rights of students in New Jersey. I have had a meeting with U.S. Congressman Scott Garrett on the subject of a proposed Senate injunction that would raise the driving age in all states in addition to voicing my opinion that youth should have an active voice in government. I founded the Midland Park Student Association which goes door to door informing the populous of the impact of budget cuts on the high school system
I am the Senate Majority leader and President at my school. As president I successfully lobbied the Board of ED to pass an injunction which would allow a student to serve on the board. I am also a frequent public speaker on the issue of student rights, I have been asked to attend the New Jersey Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership conference and speak on my involvement with youth rights. I was also selected by the American Legion to attend NJ Boy’s State.
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Questionnaire
1. Why do you want to run for the NYRA Board of Directors?
My stance is clear; I truly believe that people can make a difference. I wish to run not because I look to lead but because I wish to change. I wish to change the society in which we live; a large task requires many which is why I wish to run for the board. Where else in the world can I be among people of such similar virtue. Associate with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation; for it is better to be alone than in bad company. ~ George Washington
2. Are you familiar with the responsibilities of a non-profit board member? What prior experience do you have that you believe qualifies you to hold the position of director on our board?
I am currently serving as the President of the Midland Park Student Senate, chairman of the Midland Park Student Association and as a member of the Midland Park Board of ED. I am comfortable in a position on a board and am an experienced diplomat in board affairs. In addition I have been elected to several offices of non-profit societies in a management position.
3. What have you personally done to advance NYRA?
I revived the NYRA presence in Bergen County by opening a chapter. I have since gathered members and awareness to the message of the NYRA. My chapter has also been involved with Kyleigh’s law opposition. The chapter purchased dozens of decals which we petitioned local adults to affix to their cars so as to dilute the pool of teens being profiled by the stickers. I have also installed a program in my school which provides students with a means of defense against the administration in a formal setting. This program attracted the attention of several current NYRA who invited me to go and run a workshop at the annual meeting. I wish to give back even more by serving on the NYRA board of directors.
4. What are your short and long term goals for NYRA? How do we reach those goals?
The obvious goal for me, seeing as I live in NJ is to see Kyleigh’s Law repealed within the year. However more selflessly I wish to advance the name and image of the NYRA via student demonstrations and information campaigns. My long term goal is to perhaps do something similar to what I have done in my home town on a national scale, so that all students are afforded the opportunity to be defended and protected against any form of injustice. This is of course a loftily goal but I am a firm proponent of its viability.
5. What do you believe is NYRA's biggest challenge or weakness, and what will you do, personally, to help address it. Please be specific and realistic.
Our biggest pitfall is the fact that we argue on behalf of those who have not yet received the right to vote. This is a true weakness that must be addressed; I am a supporter of lowering the voting age and allowing youth to serve in local, State and Federal Government posts to raise awareness that while we may not be able to vote as of now we sure will in the future.
6. If elected, what will you personally do for the national organization? What projects or activities will you take leadership of? Please be specific and realistic.
I would like to spearhead the opposition of Kyleigh’s Law. I would use the disillusionment Kyleigh’s Law caused to bolster the ranks of NYRA and lead protests. The issue of free speech is also very important to me so I will hope to install a “Student Lawyer” program in all schools to ensure all students are treated fairly.
7. What do you think is the proper role for a NYRA member? How will your role be different if not elected this year?
I believe NYRA must give his or her all to advance the cause. They must give all the time and effort they can to advance the issue of ageism. If I am not elected my role will not change one iota. I will still fight on behalf of youth and battle for equal rights for all. However I feel that being a board member could drastically advance my causes, and increase the power and influence of NYRA.
8. If you served on the board last year, how would you assess your level of involvement? Did you follow through on promises you made during last year's election?
I did not serve on the board last year, however I promise to attend every meeting and fulfill all promises made during the race.
9. Define "youth rights". Describe our mission and our vision in your own words.
Quite frankly, I don’t think there is such a thing as "youth rights”. I think that there are only human rights that transcend all borders, races, genders, and ages. The idea of human rights is something that cannot be removed ever. So when I am prompted to assess “youth rights” I am hesitant because I only believe in human rights.
10. With many qualified members running for the Board, what sets you apart? Why should you be elected?
I have served on many boards before, I have met with congress men, I have formed committees, and I have passed injunctions. A fire burns within my heart for the equal rights of man.
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