Submitted by Thurston County Auditor’s Office
Elizabeth Hirotaka, a 15-year-old sophomore at Black Hills High School in Tumwater, has won the Thurston County Auditor’s Good Citizenship Day essay contest. Her award-winning essay will be published in the November General Election Local Voters’ Pamphlet and sent to more than 100,000 homes throughout the county.
“The easiest way to exercise good citizenship is through the democratic process,” wrote Hirotaka. “Democracy is not something you sit back and let happen to you, but rather you are the one to take action… Voting gives us the opportunity to make a difference in the world and to influence change beyond our community.”
Additionally, Hirotaka addressed the influence of teachers on good citizenship. “What they teach without even knowing is how to be responsible, respectful, honest and hard working. Essentially they are creating the next generation of good citizens.”
“So many students across the county took the time to consider and write about what they believe makes a good citizen,” said Thurston County Auditor Mary Hall. “From being law-abiding citizens to caring for the environment to voting, there was a variety of thoughts on what young people believe being a good citizen means. Elizabeth Hirotaka’s essay was well-researched, well-written and especially insightful on good citizens who use their voice and vote to improve a community.”
Washington State public schools recognize Good Citizenship Day on every January 16 (or the preceding Friday, if January 16 falls on a weekend).
