At The University of Baltimore, we provide knowledge that works. Get real-world career
preparation and the hands-on experience employers demand at a fraction of the cost
of other universities. Pick courses that fit your schedule and create an education
tailored to your vision and needs. Welcome to UBalt!
Beyond Voting
Often when discussing democratic engagement the conversation begins and ends with
voting. While voting is an important and essential part of the democratic process,
there are many more opportunities to become an active citizen. Below you will find
a list of different methods for for staying engaged beyond the ballot box.
Media Literacy
Diversify your news sources. Reach beyond the articles selected for you by a social
media algorithm or your typical news outlets.
Consider subscribing to a paper or publication that supports investigative journalism.
Research and read about American history and civics. The Resources page offers a significant
list of useful and powerful tools to assist you with this process.
If you are interested in taking an American history or civics course at UBalt, visit
the Schedule of Courses. There are many history and government and public affairs options.
Do your best to understand all sides of an issue. Conversing with others who have
differing opinions may be difficult, but it can offer valuable context.
Community Engagement
Plan a local activity or event. Block parties and other events are great opportunities
to get to know your neighbors. Visit The Neighborhood Project for ideas, templates and resources.
Get to know your neighbors. Attend local events, walk or utilize public transportation
when possible and make an effort to meet your community. While these sound simplistic
they are some of the most useful ways to cultivate community.
Volunteer with an organization that benefits your community. Aligning causes that
matter to you and specific skills you can bring to the organization are ways you can
make the most out of volunteering. That being said, never overlook the good you can
do by simply volunteering and doing whatever may be needed. Visit our Community Engagement page for more information about volunteering in the Baltimore community.
Visit or volunteer for a state or national park, historical society, cultural center
or museum.
Support local businesses, causes, organizations or officials through donations or
purchases.
Political Engagement
Volunteer to work at a polling place. It is a great way to provide non-partisan support
to the democratic process.
Know who your elected legislator and leaders are and how to get and stay in touch
with them. This guide will help you learn how to communicate and engage with elected officials.
Identify an issue that you feel strongly about and pursue it. Research it from multiple
perspectives and find methods to advocate for it when possible.
Attend town hall, city council, parent-teacher association or school board meetings.
Being involved will keep you up to date on what is happening in your community and
offer you additional opportunities to volunteer and serve.
Consider joining a campaign. Officials at the local, state and federal level all need
assistance and help getting thing done. Many may even offer opportunities for you
to be involved without leaving your house.
Run for office. Every elected official begins somewhere and has a cause that matters
to them. Why not you?
