Fairfax County teen uses political passion to encourage young people's civic engagement
FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (7News) — A love of baseball has kept Adrian Klaits in the sport since he was old enough to hold a bat.
"Since then, I've been playing no matter what came about, in every place that I lived," he said.
Now as a 16-year-old sophomore, he plays varsity baseball at Marshall High School, is a member of the debate club, and serves on the Virginia Young Democrats Teen Caucus.
His passion for politics developed after growing up overseas.
"Just seeing the horror of what a government that is unresponsive to its people can ensue, that kind of inspired me to get involved when I had the privilege of voicing my opinion in the United States," he said.
A voice that's having an impact.
Klaits helped move a bill forward that gives Virginia students an excused absence to attend a civic event or protest.
Governor Ralph Northam signed the bill into law in March.
"Now that people have the opportunity to go out at school, participate in whatever they want civically, that kind of changes the mindset. That changes how you think about politics," said Klaits.
The Northern Virginia teen also advocated for a recently passed voter pre-registration bill and works with the Brady campaign's youth lobbying collective to prevent gun violence.
"I'm so impressed with how hard he works. He works for others in the community, and he never puts himself first," said Klaits' friend Annika Mohajerin.
The Future Leader is currently studying three languages: Spanish, Farsi, and Russian.
After college, Klaits hopes to pursue a career in politics or business.
Whatever the path, his vision is clear.
"Trying to improve lives of people around the world and people in my community. That's what I strive for," he said.
