"People say, what is the sense of our small effort? They cannot see that we must lay one brick at a time, take one step at a time. A pebble cast into a pond causes ripples that spread in all directions." Dorothy Day
Engagement in the life of your community is an act of service. Day reminds us in the quote above that even the smallest efforts make waves. But simple acts of civic engagement are not small efforts. Taking the time to become informed, discussing issues with others, attending a community meeting or candidate forum, casting a ballot, and encouraging others cast their ballot are essential actions that pave the way for even broader participation and a more vibrant, responsive democracy.
This November, election authorities are projecting record levels of voter turnout, surpassing the previous high-water mark of two in three eligible voters casting ballots. In August, Missouri set a turnout record for a state primary election with roughly one in three eligible adults voting. While the stakes of the presidential election are always hotly debated, August primary elections aren't. But in recent years they have directly decided major issues related to taxation, healthcare, labor, and voting within the state. Generally, as the size of the community gets smaller, participation decreases. So only one in five eligible voters cast a ballot for Mayor of Kansas City, MO, and less than one in twelve cast ballots for the KC School Board. Engagement with these local questions, not just the headline races for president, is one way to effectively serve your community.
If you're not already registered to vote, Rockhurst is running a registration drive as part of Constitution Day on Thursday, September 17th.
If you are registered, consider being a poll worker in your local community. Elections can't happen without these workers, and many are retired individuals with health issues that may prevent them from working in person this November. Contact your local county clerk or election board for more information.
Guest author
Tom Ringenberg, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of political science and teaches courses in American government, public policy and public law. Ringenberg is a proud resident of the Troostwood neighborhood north of Rockhurst and Vice President of the 49/63 Neighborhood Coalition. He can often be found around campus walking his dog, Miles. You can contact Dr. Ringenberg at 816.501.4088 or Thomas.Ringenberg@rockhurst.edu.
