Civity has joined Living Room Conversations, the National Institute for Civil Discourse, the National Coalition for Dialogue & Deliberation, Interfaith America, AllSides, and a growing network of local and national leaders in the Trustworthy Elections Initiative. This collaborative effort seeks to strengthen trust in elections by creating opportunities for people to learn how elections actually work, engage across differences, and build relationships within and across communities.
Even national elections take place locally, where relationships, civic pride, and understanding are built person-to-person. Libraries, faith communities, civic organizations, schools, governments, and other local leaders can all take action to grow the interpersonal and social trust that gives people confidence in elections and election results.
Lifting Up the Local
We know that you, civity leaders in your communities, recognize the value of social trust! And so, we extend to you the invitation to be part of this.
You can…
➤ Partner with election officials
➤ Help organize outreach
➤ Host a local conversation event
➤ Support facilitation efforts
➤ Stay informed as this initiative develops
➤ Perhaps connect with other communities who are also on this journey
A local event might include:
➤ Educational sessions with local election officials explaining how voting systems work
➤ Community conversations where residents can ask questions and share perspectives
➤ Opportunities to engage across political and ideological differences
This vision is both practical and ambitious: If diverse communities can model meaningful, trustworthy engagement around elections, their stories can inspire others across the nation.You do not need to have all the answers or be an expert in elections to participate!
How to Get Involved — First Steps
➤ Let us know you’re interested! Sign up here to get in the loop.
➤ Contact your local Elections Board or Clerk. Find out what informational materials they have to share. Ask them to speak at a local gathering.
➤ Reach out to your local League of Women Voters to see if they want to partner. Check here if you need contact info.
For more information, click here.
Building Trust Together
Trust is not built through slogans or soundbites. It is built through transparency, relationships, shared learning, and meaningful engagement.
By creating spaces where people can better understand election processes and one another, communities have an opportunity to strengthen both democratic participation and social trust. Join us!