8-year-old girl recognized by Wasilla City Council after meeting First Lady in D.C.

WASILLA — Eight-year-old Shaw Elementary School student Emma Wong was recently recognized by the Wasilla City Council to celebrate her original artwork being selected for the national intuitive, Building the Movement: America’s Youth Celebrate 100 Years of Women’s Suffrage.

First Lady Melania Trump unveiled Emma’s artwork alongside drawings from K-12 students across the country. Exhibit submissions depicting imagery related to the suffrage movement in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment, which gave American women the right to vote.

Emma and her mother Megan Wong were both present at the city council meeting. Megan said they recently flew down to Washington D.C. where Emma had the opportunity to meet the First Lady, take a tour of the White House, and participate in the centennial women’s right to vote events in the area.

“She got to be a part of the movement,” Megan said. “It was very exciting.”

Emma’s submission depicts two Alaskan girls holding hands under the state flag, one white and the other Alaskan Native. She also drew a sign next to the girls that says, “Votes for all women,” acknowledging the fact that white women were allowed to vote 11 years before indigenous women could, and the social movements surrounding them.

Emma received a gift bag from council members after her mother shared her story at the podium. Wasilla Mayor Bert Cottle praised Emma’s patriotic efforts during the meeting, and joked, “even though you’re not in the city limits, I think it’s great.”

“We’re honored that she won, and just wanted to say thanks. Another 15 years, she can be sitting in my seat,” Cottle said.

After the meeting, Cottle said the city council felt it appropriate to recognize Emma for her substantial achievement despite the fact that she resides outside city limits. He said there wasn’t anything else lined up for her at the Borough Assembly or any other local meetings, so they wanted to ensure her efforts were praised in front of the public.

“I think that’s a hell of an honor. To be eight years old and meet the president’s wife, that’s something she can remember all her life,” Cottle said.

Those interested in viewing Emma’s artwork can find it at womensvote100.com

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com