HDO Presents on "Authentic Community Engagement"

On November 3, Healthy Democracy presented at the 2011 Civic Engagement Conference in Salem, Oregon. HDF enjoyed an intimate conversation with the audience about the CIR, with great questions and discussion.

The event’s theme was Authentic Community Engagement: Transforming and Inspiring Oregon Communities. With this in mind, Healthy Democracy presented on the Citizens’ Initiative Review (CIR).

The CIR provided a unique opportunity for citizens to become both engaged in the community as well as the political process. It brought together 24 Oregonians, from different towns, political affiliations, and walks of life, allowing them to deliberate on a ballot measure for 5 days. Their findings were then published in the Oregon Voter’s Pamphlet, serving as a valuable resource to voters statewide.

Many citizens who participated in the CIRs were deeply moved by the process and appreciative for having the opportunity to be involved. Several described the CIR as an empowering experience, allowing them to find common ground with other Oregonians, regardless of politics; to take ownership of the elections; and to provide a valuable public service to their fellow voters.

This is why, when HDO was asked to participate in the conference, we decided that the Citizens’ Initiative Reviews would be a powerful example of civic engagement, democracy, and community in the State of Oregon.

The conference was quite an affair, bringing together nearly 500 Oregonians involved in strengthening the state, including education, business, philanthropy, government, nonprofits, and service organizations.  Participants had the opportunity to learn about different aspects of civic engagement, including how to build awareness and provide resources, stimulate conversations and ideas, and provide opportunities for citizens to get involved in their communities.

We really enjoyed having the opportunity to talk about the Citizens’ Initiative Reviews. Healthy Democracy was joined by panelists and moderators who participated in the 2010 Reviews, which gave a more rich description of the process.

Thank you to the organizations and volunteers who made this event possible.