It’s no secret that 2020 has brought a resurgence of civic engagement in America. Young people have turned out in record numbers to protests, rallies and voter registration drives. Maybe I’m just noticing because this is the first presidential election I was of legal voting age for, but I feel like my feed is full of young people doing great things politically. They have had much to say about our nation’s response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, current events and the importance of voting. People of all ages took to the streets and the screens to share how they were feeling and different social media sites really pushed bipartisan voter registration—which clearly worked. This year, it’s predicted the voter turnout was the highest it has been since 1900.
While Election Day is over, political engagement doesn’t need to die down like it did in 2016 or even prior election years. There are plenty of ways to be involved and fight for what you believe in outside of casting a ballot. The first step to getting involved is learning more about who currently represents you in different facets of government. Research who your local, state, and federal elected officials are and then look at what their priorities are, what do they stand for? Read on to find out other ways to be politically active!
- Get Educated: Education is the most important step to political engagement. Before forming an opinion on any candidate or bill, take the time to learn more. Make sure you understand how the American political sphere operates! We are constantly learning and growing and staying informed is the most political action anyone can take.
- Call your elected representatives/join a letter-writing campaign: Once you decide where you stand, let your voice be heard, especially in local and state politics. Local officials and state senators/reps receive far less constituency communication than federal officials.
- Attend town hall meetings/public hearings: This is especially important for local boards and commissions. Meetings must be open to the public. Right now, many municipalities are live-streaming and/or holding their meetings on Zoom; removing a HUGE barrier to entry and letting you participate from the comfort of your own home.
- Volunteer for a campaign/official: If there is an elected official you really support, reach out and see how you can help. Volunteers make the world go ‘round so if you have the time, get out there and help out!
- Join/organize a rally: You have the right to peaceably assemble, exercise that right. Whether you help a political organization organize a rally or you make a sign and join something that is already happening. Mask up and hit the streets to organize for what you believe in.