Kia Smith 
Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton traded the usual political podium for a more personal conversation during a recent visit to True Star Media headquarters where Chicago high school students gathered for the On-The-Ground Press Conference which included a fireside chat with Stratton.
Students representing Corliss, Bronzeville, Kenwood, King, Simeon, Westinghouse, and Michelle Clark filled the room alongside True Star staff and the North Lawndale team who joined the event virtually. The event brought together young people involved in True Star’s various programs, including visual storytelling, content creation, visual podcasting, and broadcast technology.
Rather than opening with policy discussions or political debates, the conversation began with a simple question: Who is Juliana Stratton beyond the title?
Moderated by True Star’s Rylee McClain, co-host of the “From the ‘Go Show,” the fireside chat gave students an opportunity to learn about the woman behind one of Illinois’ highest-ranking political offices. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming as Stratton, currently running for U.S. Senate, reflected on her personal journey, her connection to Chicago and the experiences that led her into public service.
One of the conversation’s key moments came when Stratton discussed what motivated her to pursue political office. She shared how watching her ill mother face the possibility of losing her health benefits became a turning point. Witnessing the uncertainty surrounding her mother’s access to care helped shape her decision to pursue a path where she could advocate for change.
The discussion offered students a look at how personal experiences can influence a person’s career and commitment to community.
Following the fireside chat, the floor opened to True Star participants who had the opportunity to ask the lieutenant governor questions of their own. The topics ranged from public safety to personal development, reflecting the different concerns and interests of the young people in attendance.
Some students raised questions about safety on public transportation, an issue affecting many young Chicagoans who rely on buses and trains to travel throughout the city. Others shifted the conversation toward building confidence, including how to find the courage to speak publicly.
The range of questions allowed students to engage with Stratton not only as an elected official but also as someone whose experiences could offer insight into challenges they face in their own lives.
The event also connected with True Star’s mission of providing young people with opportunities to develop communication, media and storytelling skills. For students participating in the organization’s broadcast technology and content creation programs, the gathering offered a chance to experience a live political conversation and participate in a press conference firsthand.
As the event came to a close, students and True Star staff gathered around Stratton for a group photo, marking the end of an evening of conversation and questions. Before leaving, Stratton told those in attendance that the visit had been the best part of her day.
By Rylee McClain | @ryleereports
