Who Votes, Who Doesn’t, and Why it Matters

One of the core principles of American democracy is the importance of voter participation to ensure government by and for the people. However, there are deeply entrenched inequities in the political and electoral system that make our government more accountable to some people than others. Kelly Siegel-Stechler, Ph.D. and Senior Researcher at CIRCLE, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning & Engagement, at Tisch College of Civic Life, Tufts University will consider the major trends in voter participation and turnout across the US and locally in Massachusetts, some of the causes behind these trends, and their implications for democratic society. Finally, we will consider some potential solutions for policy and individuals to work toward ensuring a more just and inclusive democracy.  Supported by a civic engagement series grant from the Arlington Libraries Foundation.