Democracy Day - November 5, 2024
Democracy Day at Carnegie Mellon University is dedicated to fostering civic participation, well-being and community engagement. This year, as we approach a significant election, our efforts are focused on events leading up to the election and providing the CMU community with a centralized resource for all democracy-related activities.
There are no classes on Democracy Day prior to 5 p.m. and the entire CMU community —faculty, staff and students — is encouraged to participate as their schedules allow.
"Why We Vote: Understanding Civic Motivations"
This theme centers on exploring the diverse motivations that drive individuals to participate in the democratic process. It encourages reflection on the personal, social, and cultural reasons behind voting, aiming to foster a deeper connection to civic engagement. By highlighting different perspectives on why voting matters, we seek to inspire more thoughtful and informed participation in democracy.
"Well-Being and Democracy"
This theme emphasizes the link between personal well-being and civic engagement. It recognizes that fostering a healthy community—physically, mentally, and emotionally—strengthens democratic participation. By promoting wellness as part of Democracy Day, we encourage individuals to approach civic duties with balance and resilience, ensuring that the act of voting and engaging in democracy is supported by overall personal well-being.
“Education & Action”
This theme focuses on the intersection of learning and civic participation. It encourages individuals to become informed about the democratic process while actively engaging in shaping their communities. By connecting knowledge with practical steps for involvement, we aim to highlight the importance of turning education into action—whether through dialogue, advocacy, or local engagement. Engagement opportunities in this theme emphasize that understanding the issues, the political landscape, and how governance works is essential for making meaningful contributions to society.
“Voting Resources”
This theme emphasizes the critical role of access to reliable, non-partisan voting information. It aims to equip voters with the tools they need to confidently navigate the voting process, from understanding how to register and where to vote, to learning about the candidates and issues on the ballot. By providing comprehensive resources, we aim to support an informed electorate, empowering individuals to participate fully in democracy with clarity and confidence.
Upcoming Events
Committee Members
Doctoral Student, Neuroscience Institute
Undergraduate Student, Business Administration
Assistant Dean of Student Affairs for Civility Initiatives
Doctoral Student, Materials Science and Engineering
Coordinator of SLICE
Assistant Teaching Professor, Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy and Technology
Masters Student, Public Policy and Management
Associate Dean of Student Affairs, James and Sharon Rohr Director of Civic Engagement
DEI Learning and Development Trainer
Undergraduate Student, Chemistry
Undergraduate Student, Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy and Technology
Doctoral Student, Civil and Environmental Engineering