For the second year, The City Club of Cleveland and nine local libraries are teaming up for a civic challenge. It’s called Five Days for Democracy – a week dedicated to reminding us why democracy matters and engaging all of us in keeping it strong. The challenge will run from Monday, September 20 through Friday, September 24, 2021.
“Last year we had more than 500 citizens deepen their engagement through Five Days for Democracy. This year, with our focus on local politics, we hope to engage even more,” said Dan Moulthrop, CEO of The City Club of Cleveland.
Inspired by the YWCA Greater Cleveland 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge, Five Days for Democracy is designed to ignite conversation and motivate people to learn about their government and their role to protect it. Each day, readers will explore different facets of local politics and its impact on their lives.
FIVE DAYS FOR DEMOCRACY DAILY THEMES
Day One: Who represents me?
Day Two: What's on my ballot?
Day Three: Why does voting matter?
Day Four: How does it work?
Day Five: How can I do more?
Registered participants will receive a daily email during the length of the project that outlines an easy, fun challenge and resources for learning more — reading a book, listening to a podcast, watching a video, or responding to a call to action. All of the activities are designed to help participants understand the importance of casting their vote in elections in which winners are often determined by very small margins.
Five Days for Democracy also features a curated collection of books to encourage those whose curiosity is sparked to dig deeper and learn more about our democracy.
"On behalf of all libraries, we are excited to collaborate with The City Club on Five Days for Democracy,” said Felton Thomas, Jr., Executive Director and CEO of Cleveland Public Library. “This project offers practical tools for becoming an engaged citizen. We want more people to get involved in the election process, understand the issues facing their communities, and know who represents them."
“Partnering with our libraries to bring this project to life made perfect sense. They provide such great services and value to our communities and already support everyone participating,” said Noelle Celeste, Director of Advancement for The City Club of Cleveland.
“The City Club created Five Days for Democracy to educate, empower, and help Greater Clevelanders deepen their commitment and involvement in government,” said Moulthrop. “At the end of this project, more people will know their power and civic responsibility in a democracy. Participation is the only way we get to keep it.”
For more information and to sign up for Five Days for Democracy, visit cityclub.org/fivedays. Join the conversation on social media using #5days4democracy.