Image Description: Horizontal image with a red and gold eagle besides the text Boston College Civic Engagement Initiative, BC Engage Newsletter, November 8, 2018.
Finals are Hard...Voting is Easy!
You can count on this newsletter to connect you with opportunities to engage in dialogue, find out what fellow Eagles have to say about civic issues, and keep a pulse on civic engagement events across campus. As you close out the semester, below are some resources and reminders to help you prepare for the upcoming
election season.
IN THIS ISSUE:
Campus Voices: Staying Informed
Voting 101
What to Read
What to Watch
CAMPUS VOICES: How do BC students stay informed?
VOTING 101
The Skimm2020 has put together a helpful, non-partisan guide to the race for the White House. Click here to review the candidates, brush up on hot-button issues, and keep on top of the dates of the remaining primaries.
Confused about all of the steps in the presidential election? Here's a guide to help you navigate everything from the primaries to election day!
Additional Resources
The Boston College Library put together a comprehensive site that includes information on voter registration, where to vote, polling guides, and book lists.
Stay Up do Date on Elections During COVID-19
Boston College has partnered with TurboVote to provide you with the information and materials you need to vote in every election from local to presidential. In addition, view the TurboVote website to stay up to date on what's happening with local, state, and national elections during COVID- 19.
When you are signing up with TurboVote, if you would like to vote by mail, you can select that option on the second to last page, or you can also opt into TurboVote mailings (on the last page) and you will receive your ballot request form, instructions, and a pre-paid return envelope.
If you have any questions please email bcsa@bc.edu.
First Time Voter's Guide
This online resource provides a guide on how to vote in 6 easy steps.
Rock the Vote
Information on how voting works in each state, voting rights, voting FAQS, and a guide to "taking action".
Vote.org
Information on everything you need to know about voting including how to register to vote, absentee ballots, and polling locations.
Vote411.org
Provides an online voters tool guide including the capability to compare candidates' positions side-by-side, and print out a "ballot" indicating your preferences to serve as a reminder when you go to vote.
Ballotpedia:
Provides information on polling locations, ballot questions, current representation, and information on how to vote.
TIME ON YOUR HANDS?
Below is a list of books to add to your summer reading list as well as suggestions for TED Talks that focus on civic engagement.
In I Think You’re Wrong (But I’m Listening), the two authors, from opposite ends of the political spectrum, contend that there is a better way. They believe that we can
• choose to respect the dignity of every person
• choose to recognize that issues are nuanced and can’t be reduced to political talking points
• choose to listen in order to understand
• choose gentleness and patience
Author Peter Levine, one of America's most influential civic engagement activists, argues that American citizens must address our most challenging issues. People can change the norms and structures of their own communities through deliberative civic action. He illustrates rich and effective civic work by drawing lessons from YouthBuild USA, Everyday Democracy, the Industrial Areas Foundation, and many other civic groups.
Interested in Getting Involved?
We are seeking students to join our Civic Engagement Committee, if you are interested in learning more, please email us at bcsa@bc.edu.