Election 2020: In Community

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 08:09:33 -0500
election2020

Dear Members of the UMBC Community,

On this Election Day, we see the importance of using our voices and taking action toward a safer and more just America. The vast majority of Americans agree that voting is one of our most important civic responsibilities. Participating in elections can unite rather than divide us.

During these extraordinarily challenging times, we are inspired by members of our UMBC community, including some ineligible to vote themselves, who have worked on behalf of candidates and causes and promoted civic engagement through the Center for Democracy and Civic Life and their own organizations and networks. It is heartening to see people who are passionate about the direction of our nation and communities encouraging everyone, including those with whom they disagree, to “cast [their] whole vote.” On behalf of the Center staff, we want to thank all of the individuals, departments, and campus organizations collaborating with us on Election 2020 events and programs.

If you are voting today, this message from the Governor of Maryland notes options for in-person voting at one of the voting centers that are open across the state. Detailed information about voting is available at elections.maryland.gov/2020.

This unusually divisive election season coincides with a pandemic, economic uncertainty, new reminders of the prevalence and legacies of institutional racism, and violence and unrest around the world. The consequences of the election outcomes will affect each of us differently, in part because we are not equally vulnerable to the repercussions of public officials’ decisions and actions. These differences can weigh heavily on us and easily pull us apart.

We know we may face more challenges in the days ahead as the process of determining the election’s outcome is likely to extend beyond Election Night. It is important that every vote be counted. It is also more important than ever that all of us care for ourselves and one another, engage in civil dialogue, practice the art of listening, and—even with our differences—find ways to weather this time together. We are an inclusive community of inquiring minds, and we will continue to be a community after the election.

In that spirit, we hope students, faculty, staff, and alumni will join us for the following events:

Tonight, 7 p.m. – midnight: Election Night Extravaganza, a UMBC tradition that brings together members of our community to watch and discuss election results in real time. RSVP here.

November 4, noon – 1 p.m.: After the Election: A Community Gathering, to reflect on the challenging months leading up to the 2020 election, discuss the status of the election results, and envision the road ahead. RSVP here.

In addition, a number of UMBC departments and organizations will host Together Beyond November events in the coming days. These will be small group conversations facilitated by UMBC community members to support participants in renewing connections, reflecting on the election and its aftermath, and helping each other through challenging times. Keep an eye out for details and invitations.

You can find additional resources on the Center for Democracy and Civic Life website, and follow our myUMBC group for the latest events and information. We look forward to being in community with you and to doing this important work together in the days ahead.

David Hoffman, Director, Center for Democracy and Civic Life
Romy Hübler, Assistant Director, Center for Democracy and Civic Life