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Democracy in Action

Living in a democracy comes with inherent privileges—and responsibilities. Smith students, faculty, staff, and alums are living up to the expectations of a democratic society in numerous ways, from leading a get-out-the-vote effort to serving in public office, from debating the big issues of the day to teaching about the electoral process. Here, learn how members of the Smith community are participating fully in our democracy as informed and engaged citizens. 

Get Election Ready!

Tuesday, September 17 at 5 p.m.

In an age with 24-hour news cycles and more media outlets than ever, it’s critical that we all understand the important role the media plays in providing information to citizens—especially during a presidential election. With an eye toward media literacy, we invite you to a panel featuring a conversation with Smith College government professor Howard Gold and journalists in various roles that include editor, reporter, and host.
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“I firmly believe that education is key to the strength of our democracy. An educated and informed citizenry is the best hope we have for creating a more inclusive and just world.”
President Sarah Willie-LeBreton

Shaping Our Democracy

Alum News

Block the Vote

Voter suppression laws are on the rise. But Smithies are fighting back, working to expand political ...

  • Alum News
  • July 1, 2022
Collage--Cut out of Camille Wimbish speaking into a microphone. Behind her are cut-outs of other people's faces and a judicial scale
Campus Life

100 Years of Suffrage

A century after the ratification of the 19th Amendment, the struggle for equal representation contin...

  • Campus Life
  • September 21, 2020
A woman in white carrying an American flag in the 1913 parade on Washington

Smith Votes

Smith Votes boosts civic engagement on campus by helping students register to vote, learn about candidates and issues, and become more involved in local, state, and national elections. 

Smith Votes is a partnership between the Student Government Association, the President’s Office, the Office of Student Engagement, the Wurtele Center for Leadership, and the Jandon Center for Community Engagement.