The University of the District of Columbia is gearing up for its first-ever Democracy Week, an event series presented by the political science program Oct. 22 – 24. The week aims to provide a platform for students and the community to dive into the essentials of democracy, civic engagement and the importance of informed voting.  

Empowering Voters For November and Beyond 

Among the highlights of Democracy Week is the Voter Education Fair to be held Oct. 23 from 12:30 to 5 p.m. in the UDC Theater of the Arts. This event is designed to equip students and community members with the tools they need to fully engage in the voting process. Attendees will have the chance to interact with a variety of organizations from UDC and across the region, including the League of Women Voters, UDC Law, the Sigma Public Education and Research (SPEAR) Foundation and others. 

Associate Professor of Political Science Monique Gamble shares that Democracy Week is not just about preparing for the upcoming election—it’s about fostering long-term civic engagement. “Voting is important, of course, but the practice of democracy doesn’t end with voting. It’s the work we do every day, staying engaged, holding our elected officials accountable and continuing to speak up about the policies that affect us and our communities. There is always more to do.” 

“We’re putting the mic in front of our students, giving them the chance to be heard,” Gamble said. “Especially for students voting for the first time, it’s an opportunity to learn how the process works, understand their rights and responsibilities, and see how their vote can influence real-world outcomes. Our students are knowledge brokers for their wider communities. Our goal is to empower them with information, resources and tools, and to support them as they make positive impacts beyond our classrooms.” 

A Full Slate of Events 

Democracy Week begins with an international perspective, featuring a conversation on Oct. 22 with former U.S. Ambassador to Senegal and Guinea-Bissau James Kumwalt on the global impact of U.S. elections. 

In addition to the Voter Education Fair on Oct. 23, students can participate in “Politics 101: Lunch and Learn,” a casual roundtable discussion with political science faculty on some of the essential issues of democracy in the United States. 

The week wraps up on Oct. 24 with “Fake News, a Democracy Simulation,” an interactive event exploring the impact of misinformation on democracy. “Social media can be incredibly effective as an organizing tool,” Gamble explains. “It’s meeting young people where they are, and they’re taking what they learn out into the world. By the same token, sometimes the information on those platforms is wrong. We want to help students to be savvy media consumers and recognize the importance of media literacy.”  

Political Science in Action 

For Gamble and her colleagues in the political science program, Democracy Week is also an exciting opportunity to bring “the practice, the organizing, the social justice and the education” of political science to a wider audience. 

“Our work includes understanding how we got here and where we’re going,” said Gamble. “It provides context. It seeks to make sense of the policy decisions that determine whether or not our roads are maintained, or our schools are succeeding. These aren’t just theories. Political science speaks directly to our day-to-day lives, and Democracy Week gives us an opportunity to share that with students and others outside our program.” 

Looking Ahead 

Democracy Week represents more than just a series of events; it marks a commitment by UDC to foster an informed and engaged student body, and to create a space where students can actively participate in shaping their understanding of democracy. And as Gamble reminds us, “This is just the beginning. The work of democracy is never done.”

Schedule of Events

Tuesday, Oct. 22

A Conversation with James Zumwalt, U.S. Ambassador to Senegal and Guinea-Bissau
12:30 – 1:50 p.m.
4250 Connecticut Ave. NW, 4th Floor, Dean’s Event Space

Join an engaging discussion with former U.S. Ambassador to Senegal and Guinea-Bissau James Zumwalt, exploring diplomacy, democracy and the global impact of U.S. elections.

Wednesday, Oct. 23

Politics 101: Lunch & Learn
12:30 – 1:50 p.m.
UDC Theater of the Arts, Black Box Theater

Lunch and Learn with political science faculty: An opportunity to ask questions and explore essential topics in political engagement. Please note: Lunch is not provided. Feel free to bring your own lunch.

Voter Education Fair
12:30 – 5 p.m.
UDC Theater of the Arts, Black Box Theater

Engage with various organizations, learn about the voting process, and understand your voting rights and responsibilities. This fair is designed to empower new and experienced voters alike.

Thursday, Oct. 24

Fake News: A Democracy Simulation
12:30 – 1:50 p.m.
Homeland Security Lab, 4250 Connecticut Ave NW, 3rd Floor, Room 3124-A

Participate in an interactive simulation that explores the impact of misinformation on democracy. Learn to identify fake news and discuss its implications for a democratic society.

Don’t miss this chance to engage, learn and shape the future of democracy! All events are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Political Science Professor Dr. Ashley Daniels at ashley.daniels3@udc.edu.