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“TUXIS has always been at the forefront of societal issues,” said Boonstra, who studies political science at the University of Alberta. “It really just allows (members) to think about what does impact their lives and what issues are close to them.”

He noted that as politics around the world continue to be “intensely partisan,” TUXIS is a great example of students looking past party to discuss topics such as climate change and criminal justice reform.

“I think that’s why we are so open — that we draw on the experiences of our members — because that’s what allows us to really push the boundaries of what we discuss,” Boonstra said.

Even though many of its storied alumni — including former Progressive Conservative cabinet minister Richard Starke — have created an impressive legacy for the group, the parliament isn’t getting caught in its past.

Russell and her colleagues recently helped transition the organization from Christian to spiritual and non-denominational, while members are also working to recruit more women and gender-diverse individuals. Though 100 years old, the parliament only began allowing women to attend in 1981.

“We can’t be getting to this point unless we’re willing to move forward and grow with the times,” said Russell, adding that she and her team have brought in more members from Sikh, Muslim and other faith groups. “It’s 2019 and we shouldn’t be learning from just one religion, we should be learning from all of them.”

Speaker Nathan Cooper has been extremely supportive of the parliament, said Russell, and recently approved a display about its century of history to be installed on the fifth floor of the legislature.

Last year, 24 youth took part in the debate. Now, Russell and Boonstra hope to grow the parliament in its centennial year to fill all 87 seats in the legislature by partnering further with alumni and current MLAs to get the word out before December.

“Send a kid, it could change their life,” Russell said.

mwyton@postmedia.com

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