We're at a national crossroads where many cynics, skeptics and pundits think we've irreversibly turned a corner into the "new normal." A state of tribalism, incivility, corporate greed, governmental incompetence, voter apathy and civic neglect. A denunciation of journalists, higher education and fact-based science. These trends are real, and they are insidious and destructive to our democracy if not addressed. But they ARE being addressed. And, guess what? Help is on the way. And you and I are among the Better Angels who are turning this mess around. Can we talk?
Yes, The Problems Are Real
I'm an optimist--I'm too old to be an idealist. But, I have to be a realist and acknowledge serious issues before I can join in their positive resolution. For instance, I'm a strong proponent of constructive civic engagement. So I was eager to attend a Leadership Austin meeting this morning where UT's Annette Strauss Institute presented their latest civic health survey. Their data gave a snapshot of the unflattering comparison of Texas to the rest of the Nation relative to several benchmarks. Voter registration and turnout, voluntarism, philanthropy and civic engagement measures put us way below 1/2 of all other States in the Country.
Highlights from Annette Strauss Institute Civic Health Survey
So, Give Me Some Good News!
I recently sat at a table of lobbyists and public officials who were decrying the state of government, both in Texas and nationally. They were understandably skeptical and felt we'd reached a "new normal" from which we wouldn't recover. I respectfully disagree. There is considerable evidence that citizens, students and organizations are rising to their occasion to turn this iceberg-bound ship around. Not just in criticism and debate, but in practice.
In the past few months, I've attended events sponsored by The University of Texas, KLRU Public Television, Leadership Austin, The Headliners Club, The Texas Tribune, The Contemporary Austin and others. All were promoting programs to shore up our crumbling democracy, such as a better- informed citizenry, responsible journalism, corporate social responsibility, engaged voters and responsive government.
Last week I was thrilled to be asked to be a judge for the Annette Strauss Institute's "Speak Up! Speak Out!" civic engagement program where middle and high school students from around the state compete in presentations on community challenges and solutions. It was exciting to see a pipeline of enthusiastic young people being groomed for active citizenship. And they represented the diversity that is Texas. Bravo!
They Didn't Know We Were Seeds!
My Photo From The Women's March...
I had not paid attention to this T-shirt until now. "They tried to bury us. They didn't know we were seeds." I love it. There are so many seeds sprouting, and it's not even Spring.
--The Women's Marches spawned a phenomenal, previously repressed energy, now engaged in many sectors...
--The #MeToo movement is enabling women and men to stand together against sexual abuse and domestic violence in any form...
--Progressive D's and I's and R's are rising to their occasion to regain a healthy center from the stranglehold of conservative extremists...
--Realtors are including voter registration forms in their welcome-to-town packets...
--UT-Austin had the largest % gain in student voter registration in 2017 of any university in the nation...
--Journalists are back with a responsible vengeance after being knocked off center and marginalized by threatened politicos...
--Deep-pockets investors are buying media groups to shore up responsible news gathering operations...
--Public and private schools are creating an increased emphasis on civic engagement...
--Leadership Austin and other groups are incorporating "What Do We Do Monday?" action challenges to speakers so they just don't talk about important issues. Inform us and challenge us, too...
--More of us are realizing that while the loudest political noise is at the State and National levels, the greatest impact is local. That's where we need to concentrate. Your local elected officials are spending your tax dollars and setting policies for your home, office and infrastructure. Pay attention...
--Faith-based organizations, arts organizations and other non-profits are increasing their emphasis on social justice and other civic priorities...
--Have you noticed the national corporate advertising campaigns incorporating support for immigrants, gender equity, anti-bullying, kindness and other compassionate themes?
Just a few. You know many more. Pick your faves and help them grow...
A MOSEY CLOSE
We ARE the seeds. We've had a lot of dirt thrown at us and on us. And we've buried ourselves occasionally by letting down our guards as parents, neighbors, voters and engaged citizens. But the BIPARTISAN failure of our "We The People" government is a painful reminder that we've got choices. We can choose to be the seeds for good. Let's summon our Better Angels, join with others, be role models for constructive civic engagement and choose to make a difference. Many seeds are sprouting. Let's nurture them, help plant others and enable the healthy communities we know we can be. It starts with our friend in the mirror. LET'S MOSEY!