Do you ever wonder if your vote matters? We get it. It can be disorienting and discouraging when you feel like you have to choose the lesser of two evils, or when your cries for justice are met with silence.
But in a divided society the opposite is true: our voices are crucial. In 2024, 44 million Gen Zers, many of whom are people of color, are eligible to vote—that is power!
But this power isn’t only at play when you show up to vote. Communities of color have a legacy of using their voices to advocate for their rights and the rights of others. That inheritance of impactful change, which extends far beyond voting, belongs to you.
The evidence? People of color created change even when they didn’t have the right to vote.
What Do You Mean “Bigger Than The Ballot?”
Bigger than the Ballot is a Chasing Justice campaign that explores the meaning and impact of civic engagement so that together we can rebuild a just world. Followers of Jesus have a unique opportunity to embody the justice and love of God by participating in the life work of Jesus—paying attention to the needs of people who are most impacted by injustice (the poor, the widow and the sojourner), drawing near and responding with dignity, compassion and active love. That’s civic engagement, folks. But in case you still need a simple definition…
What is Civic Engagement?
Civic Engagement is individual and collective action designed to identify and address issues of public concern. There are many ways to engage civically—both locally and nationally— as well as virtually and IRL. Though political engagement is part of this, civic engagement is so much bigger than the ballot. It’s about how we work together to improve conditions for others and create a future of collective flourishing.
Five Examples of Civic Engagement
Civic Engagement can take on many forms. Here are five examples of civic engagement to help you get started:
Political Engagement: This includes actions like voting, lobbying, contacting your representatives during August Recess, working on a campaign and helping others register to vote.
Activism: These are the actions we people take together to create social change such as participating in protests, organizing strikes, signing and creating petitions and creating art.
Education and Awareness: Whether you are posting on social media to spread awareness about an issue, learning more about public policies or teaching others how to get involved— education and awareness is a good starting point for any civic engagement journey.
Economic Engagement: From supporting small businesses and giving to local organizations who create change to boycotting corrupt companies—your finances have the power to either show what you value or perpetuate the status quo.
Community Participation: Whether that is through volunteering with a local organization or attending community meetings, often your biggest impact is in your sphere of influence: the local community.
Stay Grounded During Election Season
Jesus modeled a civic engagement that was grounded in the love and power of God. When you participate in civic engagement, you are working together with Jesus to rebuild a just world. Throughout this campaign we will help you stay grounded during election season by giving you digestible ways to engage, rooting engagement in the presence and peace of Jesus and connecting you to other young people who are making an impact in their communities.
How Can I Get Civically Engaged And Other Questions
Check out other blogs, social media posts and podcasts to equip you in your civic engagement journey.
What can I overcome barriers to become more engaged?
How can I make an impact in my local community?
Who do I admire in the area of civic engagement?
What does the Bible say about public policy?
How can I root my civic engagement in my faith?
How can I fight for justice and unity while disagreeing with others?
How can I move beyond “thoughts and prayers” in the face of injustice?
