The University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work (GSSW) is working to facilitate additional learning and reflection opportunities during this election cycle. Our Justice & Democracy series ignites greater civic engagement among our students, alumni, faculty and staff, and the community at large. This series of free events aims to support our community to live into social work values and further learn and engage with the democratic process.
We call our GSSW community to join us this fall (#GSSWresolve). Please reference this page for upcoming civic events and resources related to local, state and federal elections.
Beyond the Polls
We've all heard it before: "Our work doesn't end on election day," but what does that mean in practice? How can we continue to build momentum for our political work while we contend with growing disillusionment in the U.S. political system? How do we navigate personal or community moral or ethical objections to voting while holding the fear of electoral outcomes that may exist in community as well? Join GSSW Assistant Professor Sophia Sarantakos, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Clinical Assistant Professor Annie Zean Dunbar and Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of California Irvine Dr. Jordie Davies as they answer those questions and more.
In this global election year, bringing leaders and the community together to address issues in democracy is more important than ever. As part of our ongoing commitment to evaluating efforts to strengthen democratic norms, values, and institutions and discussing strategies to meet the needs of a changing world, the University of Denver Josef Korbel School of International Studies proudly introduces the Denver Democracy Series and Summit.
Building on our cornerstone event, we will delve into critical issues confronting democracy at home and abroad. In collaboration with global partners, we will gather experts committed to advancing democratic values worldwide.
Save the dates for this timely and important series:
Sept. 6, 2024 | Virtual – 9—11 a.m. MTN | Global Election Year Retrospective: How fares Democracy?
Oct. 11, 2024 | Virtual – 9—11 a.m. MTN | 21st Century Elections: Technology, Disinformation/Misinformation & AI
Nov. 15, 2024 | Virtual – 9—11 a.m. MTN | US Election Aftermath: What just happened and where do we go from here?
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization working to protect and expand voting rights and ensure everyone is represented in our democracy. The organization works to empower voters and defend democracy through advocacy, education and litigation at the local, state and national levels.
Civic Engagement Through the Voices of Latino/a Youth: Exploring Definitions, Supports and Barriers
This research project aims to expand understanding of how Latinx adolescents define civic engagement, understand how Latinx adolescents see their own civic engagement both supported and hindered, and identify strategies that young people believe will help promote civic engagement among themselves and their peers. This qualitative study engaged 16 Latinx youth as experts in their own lives and as partners in data analysis, along with focus groups with 108 Latinx youth who may or may not be civically engaged. The study is situated in two major U.S. cities: Houston and Denver. Three community organizations focused on positive youth development and civic engagement collaborated on the project. Read More.
