Your Voice: Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond (Substack Writings)

On civic engagement and the responsibility we share.

As voting season closes today in the US, I’m thinking about the idea of civic engagement, especially what it means for a world in the middle of massive change.

I had an opportunity to visit my voting station in the early voting phase, and I was warmed to see families and young adults, engaging in the civic process. But it’s something we haven’t always been focused on. Why?

Maybe it’s because, in the modern era, institutions and systems veered away from their true purpose and power. Or because the system itself feels too dysfunctional, or too overrun by special interests rather than focused on what’s of benefit for all.

And it doesn’t help that no dictionary actually defines what civic engagement even means either.

Today’s Definition

Today, Merriam-Webster defines the two words separately:

Civic: of or relating to a citizen, city, citizenship, or civil affairs.

Engagement: the act or state of being involved with something.

Combined, civic engagement is described as working individually or in groups to address public issues and improve community life, through acts like voting or running for office and non-political ones like volunteering or organizing.

My Definition

My definition is closer to home.

To me, it’s about:

Staying involved in the systems that uphold human dignity: for you, for your household, for your community, city, state, and country. It’s understanding where your voice and power lie, to shape the quality of life for yourself, for others, and for generations to come.

Why this matters?

Whichever definition you choose, this matters, because however flawed our systems are, our voices are still needed to shape change at every level and at every season.

We are not islands unto ourselves. And we need each other to truly thrive and to make sure, those we choose to represent us, are held accountable. And to make sure that change, positive change that benefits us all, remains the centerpiece of our engagement.

So as this voting cycle comes to a close, stay in it, stay engaged, and support where you can. Loudly, quietly, from the table, on the sidelines, behind the scenes or just in conversation. Stay active. This year, next year, two years from now — it all counts. This is just the beginning…..

To our continued evolution. And the future we continue to create, together 🤍🌎~ C

For more on our voice, choice and responsibility, here’s themes for 2024, soon to be updated for this upciming cycle of change:

What Will You Choose? 

Thank you for reading! 🤍