Interim Dean Pete Peterson on California Tackling Historic-Low Civic Participation | IVN

California Lawmakers to Tackle Historic-Low Civic Participation

by CAFwd | December 8, 2015 | IVN

California’s glorious history is fueled by our tradition of “direct democracy,” most notably our initiative and referendum process which allows people to shape state policy via the ballot. That passion was historically accompanied by a similar interest and participation in the workings of our local governments.

But this great California tradition of public engagement is at risk. Voter turnout at the November 2014 general election hit a record low and Californians are decreasingly engaged in their communities as confidence in elected officials and government remains low.

Many people and organizations are working to change that.

The newly-established California State Assembly Select Committee on Civic Engagement will hold its first hearing on the importance of civic engagement on Tuesday morning (December 8) is the State Capitol (Room 126).

“Civic engagement is more than just voting,” said Lenny Mendonca, co-chair of California Forward. “It’s getting engaged in the public process, be it your city, your children’s school or any other issue that impacts your life. The Legislature calling out this issue is a recognition that more people should get involved.”

California’s glorious history is fueled by our tradition of “direct democracy,” most notably our initiative and referendum process which allows people to shape state policy via the ballot. That passion was historically accompanied by a similar interest and participation in the workings of our local governments.

But this great California tradition of public engagement is at risk. Voter turnout at the November 2014 general election hit a record low and Californians are decreasingly engaged in their communities as confidence in elected officials and government remains low.

Many people and organizations are working to change that.

The newly-established California State Assembly Select Committee on Civic Engagement will hold its first hearing on the importance of civic engagement on Tuesday morning (December 8) is the State Capitol (Room 126).

“Civic engagement is more than just voting,” said Lenny Mendonca, co-chair of California Forward. “It’s getting engaged in the public process, be it your city, your children’s school or any other issue that impacts your life. The Legislature calling out this issue is a recognition that more people should get involved.”