Carlos Vigil was a beloved member of New Mexico Youth & Government. As a participant in the 2013 Governor's Cabinet and a member of the New Mexico delegation to the Conference on National Affairs (CONA), Carlos was a passionate advocate for change. During his time in the program, he crafted a powerful proposal for CONA addressing the issue of bullying—a struggle he personally endured for many years. His courage and commitment to raising awareness about the devastating impacts of bullying continue to inspire us today.

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Tragically, in the summer of 2013, Carlos Vigil died by suicide, a heartbreaking outcome of the relentless bullying he had endured and internalized. His loss has left an indelible mark on our community and serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of addressing bullying in all its forms. Carlos's life, December 20, 1995 – July 16, 2013, remains a call to action for all of us to create a safer, more compassionate world.

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On April 10, 2015, New Mexico took a significant step forward in this mission with the signing of the Carlos Vigil Memorial Bullying Prevention Act. This landmark legislation which was championed tirelessly by Carlos's family and loved ones—passed unanimously by both chambers of the state legislature—established a statewide fund and framework dedicated to eliminating bullying in our schools and communities. It represents a profound commitment by our state to safeguard the well-being of all children and youth in New Mexico.

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At New Mexico Youth & Government, we honor Carlos's memory by striving to create a safe and inclusive environment for all participants. Guided by the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, our program empowers students to address the issues they witness and experience in their communities. Collaboration, problem-solving, advocacy, and inclusion are at the heart of what we do, as we work together to build a better future.

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To ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, we provide clear avenues for reporting concerns. The student reporting form is linked on this site and included in the program Guidebook. These tools allow us to address any behavior that falls short of our values and to create a program culture where every student feels valued and supported.

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Carlos Vigil's legacy continues to inspire us to stand against bullying and to promote kindness, understanding, and respect in all that we do. We remain committed to honoring his memory by fostering a community where every voice is heard and every individual is valued.