Do (at least) One Thing!
That's the CCDD mantra. Do (at least) one thing!
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In this time when it feels as though so many aspects of our democracy and pluralistic way of life are under assault, one can slip into a sense of overwhelm and paralysis. Instead, we encourage people to remember how Americans have kept up the struggle for justice for centuries.
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So take heart, and look below for ways that you can get involved. And then, do (at least) one thing!
Put the Stories of Local Activism to work!
CCDD launched the "Stories of Local Activism" project to help inspire and guide others about what they might do in their own town or city to support democracy. So check out the various case studies to see whether you might undertake a similar effort in your community. Or, maybe the case studies will spark a new idea entirely about how you can strengthen our democratic tradition and pluralistic society!
Leverage our Networks
Another way CCDD members seek to take action is by activating our "concentric circles" - ` reaching out across our respective networks to share information and opportunities for activism. This takes advantage of the concept of "trusted sources" - the idea that people are more apt to act on recommendations from people they know. Of course this influence goes in both directions as our concentric circles could inspire US to take particular actions to support democracy and racial justice.
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Above is the CCDD Concentric Circle Chart - where we have identified the various sectors in U.S. society where CCDD members may have influence.
The question is, who's in YOUR network of concentric circles? Create your own Concentric Circles Chart using this fillable pdf. Who can YOU influence as a trusted source to take action for our democracy and racial justice?
Get out the Vote! (GOTV)
Voting is the life blood of any democracy. But we know that it has been a struggle across our nation's history to extend the franchise to everyone who is eligible to cast a ballot. With the recent attacks on the Voting Rights Act and other efforts at voter suppression, it's all the more important for us as ordinary Americans to do our part to protect this crucial right. Here's what we can do:
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Learn – Read about GOTV organizations we’ve curated, research your local candidates, and understand issues that matter in your community
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Support – Choose a GOTV organization and volunteer, drive people to the polls, become an election day poll worker
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Reach Out -- Send postcards, post GOTV messages to social media, make calls with a phone bank campaign, walk/canvas to meet voters to talk about issues and encourage them to vote, engage the “disengaged” (but Learn first!)
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Donate – Give money to GOTV organizations
Who to Focus on for GOTV:
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We can make a difference by reaching out to populations that have at times been marginalized in the voting process. Click on a demographic group below to access organizations and tools where you can find support or lend a hand!
Raise your Voice!
Defending democracy requires that we raise our voices! The following are some resources to help us do just that!
How to write an OP-ED​​​​​​​
​​​​How to learn about the issues and where candidates stand​​​​​
​​​How to contact your representatives​​​​​
​​​How to prepare to visit your representatives
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Additional Resources
Below is a collection of organizations that are dedicated to supporting democracy and promoting racial justice in our pluralistic society. They offer valuable resources and tools to may help you in your commitment to do at least one thing to support democratic values and a more racially equitable society.
Southern Poverty Law Center
