empowering agents of change through public work.
we are the ones we've been waiting for. - june jackson
A NEW KIND OF POLITICS
American people are traumatized and demoralized by the “politics as usual” we see all around us in our divided nation. Rather than follow the crowd and perpetuate hatred, fear, and close-mindedness, today’s young people can choose to go against the current. They can stand for something bigger than political parties and work toward something more meaningful than a paycheck. They can choose to embrace people’s humanity, even when it may be hard to see. They can assume positive intent in everyday interactions with their fellow citizens. They can join us in our mission to stand up for we the people – all of us - as a powerful force in the revitalization of democracy for all in today’s society.
the citizen student movement exists to fulfill this vision.
about us
Who are we?
We are a movement founded at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities in fall 2017. We strive to engage people in making change by channeling their passions through community action and discussion. Through our mission, we will empower people to co-create a better world.
What do we do?
We meet every Thursday night from 5:30-7 pm in Peik Hall (Room 335) on the University of Minnesota campus during the semester. We engage in activities that enable people to develop and practice the skills necessary to take leadership in co-creating the world around them, including:
-
Civic Deliberations – These are public discussions of relevant issues in a free space that allows diverse opinions and personal stories to be shared without judgment. These discussions foster understanding across differences and contribute to civic life by enabling people to widen their perspectives and work with others.
-
Training Workshops – Members of the Core Team engage in training sessions with community groups, and college and high school students. They teach them the public skills necessary to develop civic agency and make change. We are interested in expanding our training capacity and engaging with more with groups on the local, national, and international levels.
-
Public Work Projects – Every semester, CSM members engage in group projects that address important public issues in a meaningful way. They “power map” stakeholders, talk to community members, and execute plans of action to make a difference around public problems. This semester, members are working to address political polarization and inequalities in the criminal justice system.
Who is involved?
-
Core Team Members: Our team is made up of 9 students who have taken the Public Affairs class, “Organizing for the Public Good,” and who are passionate about continuing what they have learned in meaningful ways. This core team leads the central functions of the group, as well as the public work projects.
-
General Members: All students at the University of Minnesota, Augsburg University, students from surrounding schools, and members of the community are invited to participate.
-
Students of PA 1401: Organizing for the Public Good: This class, taught by Dennis Donovan, is offered both fall and spring semesters at the U of M. It teaches students the key skills and practices necessary to engage in community work and exercise civic agency in their world. Students who take this class are invited to participate in the movement during the semester and beyond.
-
Partnering Student Groups: Student groups at the U of M and Augsburg University collaborate on civic deliberations to bring unity to the student experience on both campuses and are invited to engage with any of our projects or initiatives.
-
Community Organizations: We also involve organizations outside of the universities in our work, such as the Circle of Peace Movement, Better Angels, and Maxfield Elementary School.
Past Events
civic
deliberations
training
public work
projects
