As a young Black single mother, an educator, and a student pursuing my master’s degree in education in library science, I have always believed in the power of community. I know firsthand the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered. That’s why I chose to host the Community Vibes: Engage & Vote event as part of the Fixing Democracy initiative.
The idea for this event was born out of a desire to bring together diverse voices in my community—especially young people, families, and gender-expansive individuals—and encourage them to become active participants in shaping their future. I wanted to create an environment where people could learn about the power of their vote while also having fun and connecting with others. The event included live music, a DIY art station with voting-themed crafts, free food and drinks, and guest speakers from local advocacy groups. I also provided a space for people to learn more about the voting process, register, and find their polling locations.
What inspired me to create this gathering was the overwhelming sense of civic apathy I noticed in my community. Although people felt disconnected from national politics, they were deeply committed to local change. This event was a way to bridge that gap—showing how local engagement could lead to broader systemic change. It was a reminder that voting is not just about elections; it’s about having a voice in the future of our community.
The impact of the event was felt immediately. People left the event feeling inspired and informed. Many attendees took the time to register, and several signed up to volunteer in local campaigns. What was most meaningful to me, however, was the conversations that took place. It was clear that people wanted to be involved, but they needed the tools and resources to do so. By offering an open space to learn and connect, I was able to provide just that.
Hosting this event taught me the importance of making civic engagement accessible and enjoyable. It reminded me that, for many, voting can feel like a daunting task. But when it is framed as a way to make meaningful change in your own community, it becomes something people are eager to participate in. This experience has fueled my passion for continuing to build community-focused events that engage and inspire others to act. It also affirmed my commitment to helping young people and single mothers pursue their education and career dreams, because those two areas are intrinsically linked to creating lasting social change.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue using my platform to foster meaningful civic engagement, build bridges within my community, and inspire the next generation of leaders. The Fixing Democracy initiative was an incredible opportunity to amplify the voices of those who are often overlooked, and I am grateful for the chance to contribute to this movement.
In the end, the future of democracy lies not just in voting—it lies in community, in the collective action of people coming together to demand the changes they want to see. My hope is that Community Vibes: Engage & Vote is just the beginning of many more events that empower people to take charge of their future.
-Dejah Carlock
