With over 35 workshops filled with former governors, former senators, former chief of staff, and even members of the DEA, the Day of Democracy had plenty of government “star power.”
The day gave students the opportunity to learn about the importance of civic engagement in society in a non-traditional convention style manner.
The day was kickstarted with an opening prayer service where we heard readings and a memorable reflection by Blake Mahoney ’25.
Mahoney said, “at Brophy, in our homes, in our state and our country, there is bound to be some anxiety, anger, and confusion. What we can do, to help deal with all that, is to listen. Listen not to reply, but to understand.”
After this students were split into one of the plentiful workshops available for students to sign up for. Miles McCarthy ’25 was fascinated at his workshop by Maricopa County District Four Chairman and father of Benton Hickman ’25, Clint Hickman. When McCarthy was asked about the importance of workshops and Hickman’s in particular he said, “it impacted my day because even after hearing all of the terrible things that happened to him he was still able to see good in both parties and the people in them.”
At the end of the 40 minute workshop period, students returned to their Community Team rooms where they filled out a “Brophy Mock Election” Google form in which, if they registered to vote, students could fill out their ballot.
From here, students filed into Robson Gymnasium where a panel was set up for former Governor Doug Ducey and fellow competitor and civic leader Fred Duval. They responded to a set of questions being presented by Matthew Polachek ’26, David Robaina ’25, and Jose Luis Avila ’25.
Polachek expanded on the importance of the panel saying, “this was integral for our school because as much as politics makes us divided, this day brought us together to learn that differences in opinions can help us grow as a community and help us learn how to have civil conversations and disagree with intent.”
To conclude the day, Mr. Burr came upon the announcements and stated the results of the Brophy Mock Election which had Donald Trump winning the Presidential Office, Ruben Gallego in the Senate, and Prop 139 with a straight fifty-fifty split.
Mr. Burr’s goal coming into it was to promote civil engagement for Brophy students. “How lucky we are in the United States to have the privilege to vote and the absolute necessity it is for Brophy students to use this privilege,” said Burr.
The day had a goal to help students further understand the importance of political action and taking part in a democratic environment and with over half of the students participating in the mock election, Burr considered the event a success.
