Civically Engaged

What does it mean to be a member of a democratic society?

U-M’s Democracy & Debate’s themed semester addresses that question while also exploring societal issues that include health care, education and systemic racism through a variety of events and digital resources.

“There is no shortage of societal problems that demand the attention of an engaged academic community,” President Mark Schlissel said.

In addition to fostering substantive discussions, the goal of the themed semester is to encourage responsible participation in democracy through speaking up, taking action and voting on Nov. 3. 

“What makes Democracy & Debate distinctive is not only the contributions from across the university, but also the connection to the presidential election season,” said Professor Angela Dillard, Richard A. Meisler Collegiate Professor of Afroamerican and African Studies.

Upcoming events include Oct. 2’s A Conversation with Filmmaker Ken Burns & Isabel Wilkerson, Author of “Caste”, Oct. 8’s The Power of Your Vote, and Oct. 12’s Continuing Challenges in Suffrage: Who Still Can’t Vote. 

Looking for something to do now? Check out the Michigan Online Democracy & Debate Collection. It includes online opportunities designed to help people understand the context, dynamics, implications, policies and issues at the center of the democratic process. The collection has a range of digital assets to help prepare learners for civic, political and community engagement, and will provide a curated range of educational materials for use in student gatherings and in community events.

View the Democracy & Debate website for more events, signature initiatives and learning opportunities.