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September 15, 2004
Election Politics: What about Civic Engagement?
The history of debate and discussion about civic engagement is rich with academic fervor and insightful observations. Part of advocating for the increase of civic engagement in society is paying attention to popular media discussion. Every four years the news cycles get shorter and the media focuses on the major issues of the day. Where is the discussion about civic engagement during this election? In general, the popular consensus is that the issue is not political. Either political party at anytime can reference civic engagement, civil society, or graduation with civic honors.
Advocates who use online public forms for interactive dialogue and discussion have to recognize that to achieve lasting change keeping the issue active is important. These same advocates can expect that structurally every four years election politics will generate a significant degree of media attention. Organizations exist that are interested in studying, promoting, or facilitating dialogue to increase civic engagement. This dialogue has to focus on the practical application of real world solutions. Graduation with civic honors is an example of how to energize, mobilize, and provide recognition for a new generation of society.
Modern media is not going to change style or focus in the near future. Politicians are not going to be campaigning on the virtues of civility. Politicians focus on programs that resonate with voters. Fortunately, building stronger communities and helping increase civic engagement in society are positive issues with voters.
The debate about civic engagement has to transition form being a dialogue driven discussion of civil society. Dialogue is important to helping promote understanding. Thinking about election politics as providing a possibility for action is a positive step forward. Right now to strengthen the social fabric, advocates have to focus on legislative solutions that can resonate with politicians during periods of election politics. Debating the virtues of civility does not fund implementation of programs to increase civic engagement.
314 words posted by nels lindahl at 10:03 PM
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