Our Civic Learning and Democratic Engagement Programs
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Democracy 101: A Series of Critical Conversations
This series of co-curricular lectures, panel discussions and workshops focuses on the idea and practice of democracy.
We welcome faculty, staff, students and community partners to present. Possible topics may include: student activism, how to run for office, the history of social movements, democratic values, the idea of commons, student civic development, the role of media in a democracy, how to organize for social change, and more!
All sessions are INT 100 approved!
Fall 2022: Vote Smart!
Date: |
Topic: |
Location: |
Time: |
---|---|---|---|
September 21 |
The Basics of Midterms and Ballots |
Mary Idema Pew Library Multi-purpose Room (LIB 030) |
6-8 p.m. |
October 5 |
Midterm Proposals 101 |
Mary Idema Pew Library Multi-purpose Room (LIB 030) |
6-8 p.m. |
October 19 |
Federal and State Voting Rights Landscape |
Mary Idema Pew Library Multi-purpose Room (LIB 030) |
6-8 p.m. |
November 2 |
Election Security |
Mary Idema Pew Library Multi-purpose Room (LIB 030) |
6-8 p.m. |
November 16 |
Political Preparation for the Holidays |
Mary Idema Pew Library Multi-purpose Room (LIB 030) |
6-8 p.m. |
December 7 |
The Post-Election Timeline |
Mary Idema Pew Library Multi-purpose Room (LIB 030) |
6-8 p.m. |
Check out photos from our past events!

Panelists from our youth political engagement panel discussion pose for a picture after their session.

Students listen in on an important panel discussion on PFAS in Michigan.

Relando Thompkins-Jones joined a panel of GVSU faculty and staff to speak to a group of students about the importance of free speech and inclusion.

In an interactive session on media literacy, Mindy Holohan joined GVSU student Jane Johnston and GVSU Librarian Elizabeth Psyck in sharing skills and lessons on the topic.

At 'Elect Her,' students and local officials gathered to talk about strategies for young women in leadership positions.
Have an Idea for a Democracy 101 Event?
Do you have a question about democracy, civic life or student democratic participation that you would like to explore?
Are you interested in presenting or facilitating a workshop or a conversation about a current public issue?
Do you have an idea or a project that promotes civic life and democratic participation that you would like to share?
If so, please share your idea with us at (616) 331-2345 or [email protected].
Past Democracy 101 Event Recordings
Didn't make it? Don't worry - you can still dive in to Democracy 101 by watching the videos below!
The Mythology of the American Dream
Democracy and the American Dream
Student Media and Democratic Engagement