The hottest Civic engagement Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

Seattle's Most Remarkable Day

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 339 implied HN points • 25 Apr 24
💾 History Local history Transportation Economic Development Civic engagement Cultural Events
  1. Seattle's citizens wanted a railroad to connect them to the rest of the country. After being rejected by the Northern Pacific Railroad, they decided to build their own railroad instead.
  2. On a notable day in 1874, the community came together to start building the Seattle and Walla Walla Railroad, marking a moment of pride and determination.
  3. Although the railroad never reached its ambitious goals, it opened new opportunities for Seattle, particularly in coal supply, showing how local efforts can make a big impact.

Come Ask me a Question on my Post-Election Livestream Q&A

The Chris Hedges Report • 101 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political Commentary Civic engagement
  1. There's a livestream event where you can ask questions after an election. This is a chance to get direct answers and share your thoughts.
  2. The platform encourages readers to support by subscribing either for free or with payment. This helps keep the conversation going.
  3. The post is meant to engage readers and get them involved in important discussions. It's a good opportunity to connect with the ideas being shared.

December 31, 2024

Letters from an American • 30 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Current Events Public Opinion Political History Civic engagement
  1. The best part of the year was meeting many people while traveling across the country. Connecting with others made the year feel special and meaningful.
  2. Gratitude is important, and the support from others is deeply appreciated. It highlights the value of community and shared experiences.
  3. The red skies at sunset can be seen as a sign of hope. Looking forward, it's good to stay positive and hopeful for the future.

Should we have Deliberative Democracy?

Erik Examines • 89 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Political theory Civic engagement Public Policy Governance
  1. Deliberative democracy is about having conversations among citizens to make better decisions, rather than just voting. It focuses on discussing issues deeply before deciding things.
  2. This model can be mixed with traditional democracy, where citizen assemblies could help inform lawmakers. It doesn't replace representatives but enhances how decisions are made.
  3. Using AI can help find common ground during discussions, making it easier for people to reach agreements on policies. It could guide groups to better solutions by analyzing opinions and suggesting compromises.

Reminder: Zoom Call Tonight

Nonzero Newsletter • 112 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political culture Public Policy Civic engagement
  1. There's a Zoom call happening tonight at 8 PM US Eastern Time. It's for NZN members to talk about the election and what's next.
  2. The call will last for 90 minutes or until all questions are answered. It's a good chance to discuss important topics.
  3. You can join using the provided link to ask questions and share thoughts with others.
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January 11, 2025

Letters from an American • 18 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Current Events Civic engagement Public Opinion Social Issues
  1. Coming home after a trip can feel cozy and warm, especially with a light snowfall. It’s nice to enjoy the little moments, like an evening of playing games with friends.
  2. Taking time to rest and relax is important. It’s okay to take a break and recharge after being busy.
  3. Supporting local artists by visiting galleries is a great way to appreciate creativity in your community. It helps connect you with the art and the people behind it.

Thanksgiving: The Propaganda Holiday

JoeWrote • 67 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics History Education Social Issues Civic engagement Indigenous rights
  1. Thanksgiving is often taught as a friendly feast between settlers and Native Americans, but the reality was much harsher, involving broken treaties and violence. It's important to understand the real history behind it.
  2. The holiday has been used as a form of propaganda to promote a false sense of unity and national identity in America, while ignoring the harms done to Indigenous peoples.
  3. Recognizing the true history of Thanksgiving can help us confront the myths propagated in our education system and work towards a more honest understanding of America's past.

Links to Consider, 11/10/2024

In My Tribe • 273 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Media Economics Civic engagement
  1. The connection between the government and society has grown stronger over the last 30 years, changing how power is used and its effects on freedom.
  2. There is a growing concern that the people in charge of local businesses no longer represent the interests of their communities, leading to a disconnect in local governance.
  3. Technology may challenge our ability to grasp complex issues, which makes the idea of limited government even more important to protect individual freedoms.

I Don't Think Dan Le Batard Should Dump on Trump Voters

House of Strauss • 80 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Opinion Media Analysis Civic engagement Political trends
  1. Political discussions can get really intense because they affect people's lives. It's important to try to understand where others are coming from, even if you don't agree with them.
  2. Voting decisions are complicated and often involve many factors. People vote for candidates based on personal experiences and beliefs, not just political slogans.
  3. It's important to focus on connections with others and recognize their humanity, regardless of their political choices. Judging others harshly for their votes can create divides instead of understanding.

The guardrails are off

Men Yell at Me • 200 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democracy Public Opinion Civic engagement
  1. Many Americans are really stressed about the upcoming election. It's normal to feel anxious about big events that could affect our lives.
  2. Articles often suggest easy fixes like turning off the news, but sometimes that isn't enough. It's valid to feel scared about the future of democracy.
  3. Facing tough realities is part of being human. It's okay to acknowledge fear and uncertainty instead of pretending everything is fine.

Making Civic Life Thick Again; Rashid Khalidi in Haaretz; Remembering Canarsie

Unpopular Front • 29 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Civic engagement Social movements National Identity
  1. Political parties need to focus on building stronger local organizations to reconnect with working-class voters. This means creating spaces where people can gather and engage in civic life together.
  2. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is complex and cannot be solved easily. Understanding both sides and their histories is crucial to discussing potential solutions.
  3. Using violent tactics in political struggles can backfire, especially when the opposing side feels victimized. It's important to think about the long-term effects of such strategies.

Freedom and safety

Thinking about... • 172 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Elections International relations Civic engagement
  1. Ukrainians are fighting for their freedom and defending democracy, helping to maintain global stability. Their courage allows other countries to focus on their own issues while they bear the burden of the fight.
  2. Supporting Ukraine through donations or by voting for pro-Ukrainian candidates is crucial. Even small contributions can make a big difference in helping them feel safer and more secure.
  3. Democracy is about cooperating and caring for others, not just arguing for our own beliefs. By working together and helping one another, we can all create a world where everyone has more freedom.

Summer of '23

Castalia • 279 implied HN points • 10 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Economic issues Public Policy Civic engagement Political parties
  1. Summer of 2023 felt peaceful and calm as people enjoyed being outside and the pandemic seemed less serious. There was a sense of civility in society, and tensions had eased compared to previous years.
  2. Political conversations grew more complex, with former patterns returning but underlying issues remaining. Figures like Trump were still influential, and concerns about Biden's capability to lead resurfaced.
  3. Missed opportunities arose in dealing with significant issues like AI regulation and the impacts of the pandemic. It highlighted how good governance can lead to a positive cultural moment, but many challenges are still looming.

How to Get Policy Totally and Completely and Exasperatedly Wrong

Exasperated Infrastructures • 19 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Legislation Local government Transportation Civic engagement Political Commentary
  1. New legislation in NYC about e-bikes may not solve the real problems of street safety and congestion. Instead of just registering bikes, the focus should be on redesigning streets for better safety for everyone.
  2. The support for this e-bike legislation from various politicians suggests a lack of understanding of the real issues. Many are using it as a way to appear proactive without actually addressing the deeper problems at play.
  3. There are big questions about how this new law will be enforced and funded. Without clear answers on who pays and who manages it, this policy may end up being ineffective and a waste of resources.

When students report the news

The Bell Ringer • 59 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
🚌 Education Civic engagement Media Literacy Youth Programs
  1. Student journalism has important academic benefits. It helps students learn critical thinking and writing skills.
  2. Engaging in journalism can boost civic awareness among young people. It encourages them to understand and participate in their communities.
  3. New networks are promoting student journalism and its positive impacts. These platforms aim to highlight the value of student voices in media.

Fixing the Web Week Recap: 5/27/24

Unmoderated Insights • 39 implied HN points • 28 May 24
🕹 Technology Social media AI User engagement Civic engagement
  1. Social media feeds often rank content based on how much people engage with it, but this can lead to promoting harmful or low-quality information. It's better to rank content based on diverse engagement from a variety of users.
  2. Research shows that when diverse groups engage with content, it helps point out harmful posts. If a lot of different people express concerns about a post, it’s likely low-quality.
  3. Using smarter ranking methods can improve the overall user experience on social media by reducing bullying and misinformation, which can help companies grow in the long run.

Chaos reigns across Great Britain | article

Tumbleweed Words • 7 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Government Accountability Social Issues Public Policy Civic engagement
  1. Many people are upset about the lack of accountability in the UK government regarding serious issues, especially involving children. It's important for society to recognize these problems and demand change.
  2. There is a feeling that the current leadership in Britain operates like a criminal group, punishing those who speak out against injustices. This environment can lead to fear and silence among citizens.
  3. Unity and public outcry are crucial for avoiding further decline in society. Citizens need to stand together and call for a new government to bring about real change.

Electoral Blues

Tessa Fights Robots • 24 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Civic engagement Public Sentiment Political Commentary
  1. Many political elections feel like a game or theater to some people. They believe real change doesn't come from just voting, but from facing what's truly going on around us.
  2. Our personal power to create change comes from how we manage our energy and connect with others. It's about clarity, love, and courage in our daily lives.
  3. Instead of getting caught up in elections, we should focus on our inner strength and the courage to stand up against those who try to control us. We have the ability to change the world ourselves.

November 9, 2024

Letters from an American • 21 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Legislation Political Analysis Civic engagement
  1. Finding peace in quiet moments is important during chaotic times. It's nice to take a break and reflect on calmness.
  2. Sleep is essential, especially after busy or stressful days. Rest can help recharge for whatever comes next.
  3. Art can provide a different perspective and comfort. A beautiful photograph can be a reminder of serene moments amidst daily chaos.

In None We Trust

Some Unpleasant Arithmetic • 21 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civic engagement Political Trust
  1. Social trust is about how much people trust each other, and it's important for communities. High trust helps groups work well together and makes society more connected.
  2. Income and social connections matter. People with better jobs and education tend to have more social trust, which can lead to better relationships and success.
  3. Loneliness and low social trust can hurt society. People are feeling more isolated, especially after the pandemic, which can lead to less community engagement and connection.

The Democracy Reforms Transforming Local Politics

theconnector • 137 implied HN points • 25 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Local Politics Civic engagement
  1. Participatory budgeting and citizen juries are empowering local communities to make decisions about budget allocations.
  2. Local government initiatives like Decatur 101 and CivicLex are improving communication and engagement between residents and local government.
  3. Promoting civic engagement can lead to positive changes in communities, and individuals have the power to champion democratic reforms.

National Myths Old and New

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 10 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Identity Historical Narratives Civic engagement Cultural critique
  1. There are two main stories about America's past: one celebrates its founding and achievements, while the other highlights its flaws like slavery and injustice. People seem to be divided between these two views.
  2. A new generation sees America's past as something that can be redeemed through acknowledging past wrongs and offering reparations. This idea focuses on healing and addressing the trauma of oppressed groups.
  3. America's role in the world is important, too. Instead of just looking at what happened inside the country, it's vital to recognize how it protects allies and maintains a certain type of order internationally, which can also shape positive patriotism.

Zoom event Monday evening October 14

In My Tribe • 45 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Content Moderation Political Conflict Public Discourse Civic engagement Media influence
  1. There's a Zoom event on October 14 at 8 PM New York time with John Samples discussing content moderation on Facebook.
  2. The event will also touch on the current state of political conflict and where it might be headed.
  3. This event is exclusive to paid subscribers, so make sure to sign up if you want to join.

American Un-Exceptionalism

Diane Francis • 559 implied HN points • 11 Feb 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Process Government Accountability Elections Political Leadership Civic engagement
  1. Many American politicians ignore important issues, focusing instead on their own political gain. This shows a lack of responsibility and awareness of their duties as leaders.
  2. America's political leaders often don't compare well to those in other countries, ignoring that other nations provide better living standards and education for their citizens.
  3. The concept of 'American exceptionalism' is fading because the U.S. is not living up to its potential. The country can do better by learning from successful practices in other developed nations.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 28.10.2024

steigan.no • 8 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Trust Public Opinion Political Movements Government Policy Civic engagement
  1. Many people reported health issues from old computer screens, and this problem seems to persist with modern smart meters. It's important to understand the potential health risks from technology we use every day.
  2. Trust in media in the US has reached record lows, with more people expressing distrust than trust. This highlights a growing divide in how people perceive news sources.
  3. Younger Republicans are now supporting a shift in US foreign policy towards Israel, showing a significant change in political attitudes among the youth. This indicates a potential shift in how future generations may approach foreign policy.

Transcript of "The election may not mean what we think."

Charles Eisenstein • 5 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political narratives Public Sentiment Civic engagement Political Change
  1. The recent election has stirred many emotions in people, from hope to despair. It's important to recognize these feelings without making quick judgments about what they mean.
  2. Uncertainty is a big part of our current situation. Instead of clinging to one narrative, we should explore different viewpoints and stay open to new ideas.
  3. We might face significant changes that challenge what we know. Preparing for the unexpected means letting go of fixed beliefs and being curious about what could come next.

Why it's OK To Ignore Politics

We're Gonna Get Those Bastards • 7 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Behavior Mental health Social media Civic engagement Political Opinions
  1. If politics makes you feel good or bad, it might be time to rethink things. Most of what happens in politics is out of your control, so don’t let it affect your mood.
  2. Getting too caught up in political arguments on social media can actually make you unhappy. Maybe it's better to focus on what brings you joy in life instead.
  3. Having calm discussions in person can help change opinions more than online fighting. It’s often more productive to talk to people face-to-face rather than argue online.

Fostering Free Expression in Higher Education

Natural Selections • 4 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🚌 Education Free speech Higher education Academic Freedom Social justice Civic engagement
  1. Universities should adopt the Chicago Principles, which support free speech and allow everyone to express themselves without fear of backlash. This helps create a safer space for open discussion.
  2. Administrators and faculty should encourage respectful disagreement and avoid ruling with fear. They should treat students as partners in learning, allowing for mistakes and corrections.
  3. Students should embrace diverse ideas and experiences, rather than seek comfort in familiar beliefs. Engaging with different perspectives helps broaden understanding and growth.

MAHA In Middle School

Outspoken with Dr Naomi Wolf • 0 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Campaigning Civic engagement Public Relations Political Movements
  1. Political movements need to grow up and adapt. Relying on personal drama and immature tactics can derail important agendas.
  2. Listening and respecting constituents, especially women, is key. Strong female voices are essential to foster a successful movement.
  3. A clear and effective communication strategy is vital. A solid press office can help maintain relationships and convey progress consistently.

A Most Unusual Artifact

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 0 implied HN points • 28 Oct 21
💾 History Biography Civil War Justice System Civic engagement Urban History
  1. Carol Whipple discovered a glass eye that belonged to her great-grandfather, Justice Roger Sherman Greene, while going through a box of family photos. It was a surprising and memorable moment for her.
  2. Roger Sherman Greene was a Civil War veteran and served as Chief Justice in Washington. He stood up for justice, even when it was dangerous, like when he tried to protect two men from a lynch mob.
  3. Despite his anti-Chinese views, Greene worked against racist mobs in Seattle to uphold the law. His life reflected a complex mix of beliefs, focusing on justice and community issues.

Research Note: On writing your congressman

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 26 Sep 11
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Political Communication Civic engagement Public Opinion
  1. The internet has changed how Congress works by making information fast and accessible. Now, people can feel more involved in the decision-making process because news spreads quickly.
  2. Emails to Congress have greatly increased since 2002, while traditional postal mail has decreased. This shows that people prefer emailing their representatives over sending letters.
  3. The volume of emails spikes from 2007 onwards due to issues with spam. There hasn't been much data before 1998, but we know emails have become the main way to contact lawmakers.

Sunday whimsy: political conversations with my family

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 16 Oct 11
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Elections Public Opinion Family Dynamics Civic engagement
  1. Talking about politics can start from a young age, as shown when children ask questions about leaders and elections.
  2. Family members can have very different opinions on political candidates, leading to interesting discussions.
  3. Conversations about politics often mix humor and serious views, showing how families navigate differing beliefs.

Twelve minutes of popular sovereignty

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 08 Nov 11
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Civic engagement Political culture
  1. Voting can feel special and meaningful, like being part of something bigger. It's a chance to connect with history and the future every time you cast your vote.
  2. Going to the polls is a mix of excitement and calm. It's quieter now than in the past, but that doesn't make it any less important.
  3. The process of voting has changed over time, with new technology making it easier. But the feeling of participating in democracy stays the same.

Church Democracy

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 13 Nov 11
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Democracy Church Community Civic engagement
  1. Democratic structures in churches can empower community members. People feel more involved and engaged when they have a say in decisions, especially in smaller, more self-governing congregations.
  2. The election process observed was not very effective. It seemed to favor candidates with some support but also significant opposition, and many voters did not fully understand the responsibilities of the positions.
  3. Getting young people involved in voting is beneficial for both them and the church. It helps them feel connected and valued, and it could encourage them to stay engaged as they grow older.

Why the #SOTU Matters

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 24 Jan 12
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Democracy Public Sentiment Civic engagement
  1. The State of the Union address symbolizes unity in government. It's a rare moment when all branches of government come together, reminding us that we are a united republic, even with differing opinions.
  2. It reflects how the government works, showing that the President doesn't just make laws but asks Congress to act. This moment highlights the importance of collaboration in democracy.
  3. The emotional impact of the State of the Union is significant. It creates feelings of pride and hope, showcasing the power of the democratic process and the celebration of our government.

No Sense in Fighting This Meme...

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 16 Feb 12
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Public Opinion Civic engagement Political Behavior
  1. Memes are powerful and can spread quickly. It's often better to embrace them than to fight against them.
  2. Trying to resist a popular meme can lead to more negativity. It's usually a waste of energy to push back.
  3. Understanding and engaging with memes can lead to better communication and connection with others. It's important to be aware of their impact.

Not my favorite holiday

Matt’s Five Points • 0 implied HN points • 17 Feb 12
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political culture Historical Figures Democracy Civic engagement
  1. Some holidays, like Columbus Day, may not hold much cultural significance and often aren't celebrated outside of being a day off work.
  2. The author feels uncomfortable with the way we honor political figures, particularly George Washington, believing that democracy is more about the collective efforts of many people rather than individual heroism.
  3. Instead of celebrating specific leaders, the author suggests we should focus on holidays that recognize broader accomplishments, like Constitution Day or a day celebrating civil rights victories.