In response to news about our nation and the world that is challenging and unsettling to many, St. Stephen’s initiated a weekly program known as “What Can I Do?” that meets on Wednesday evenings at 7:15 in the church at 353 Main St. in Ridgefield. “When things are unfamiliar, we can feel alone and fearful,” said The Rev. Whitney Altopp, the church’s rector. “One thing we can do is remember faithful civic and spiritual people, past and present, and allow fundamental principles to guide us.” For several weeks the program has brought people together for prayer and inspiration, sharing stories, and building connections. All members of the community are welcome.
This week former Connecticut State Senator Will Haskell will be a special guest of the Wednesday program. He is expected to share his story of how he became involved civically and the journey that led him to running for office. There will be time for questions.
Haskell was a senior at Georgetown University when he launched his successful 2018 campaign—making him the first Democrat to represent the 26th District in over 50 years and the youngest state senator in the country. After serving two terms, he entered New York University Law School, where he is one of four Furman Public Policy Scholars in the Class of 2025. Outside of school, he manages a political action committee dedicated to electing young leaders to state and local office. He said in a Wilton Bulletin interview on January 7, 2023: “For you young people, if you are feeling frustrated about the state of our politics, we need your voices.”