As heightened political awareness spikes a greater interest in politics nationwide, more people than ever are interested and eager to get involved, but aren’t sure where to start.
That’s why the ACLU of South Dakota is again hosting its popular Activist Academy, a comprehensive training to show South Dakotans ways to make a difference in their community on a local and state level.
But this year, participants don’t have to leave the comforts of their couch. Activist Academy is going virtual. Participants can log on to the free training via Zoom on Nov. 17 or Nov 21.
Activist Academy participants throughout the state will develop their skills as advocates and activists at all levels. With an eye toward South Dakota’s upcoming legislative session, attendees will learn about the legislative process and how they can best influence elected officials as well as how they can be year-round advocates of the issues they care most about.
“Democracy requires us to stand up for our rights, not just at the ballot box, but out in the streets and in the halls of the legislature,” said Libby Skarin, ACLU of South Dakota policy director. “We want to engage people to take action, get ready for the upcoming legislative session and hold our elected officials accountable.”
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Virtual Activist Academy
WHEN: 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 17 or 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21 (CST)
WHERE: Your couch. Or kitchen counter. Or wherever you have Internet access.
TO REGISTER: Go to www.aclusd.org/events (Participants must register to be granted access.)
ABOUT THE ACLU OF SOUTH DAKOTA:
The American Civil Liberties Union of South Dakota is a non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of civil liberties and civil rights. The ACLU of South Dakota is part of a three-state chapter that also includes North Dakota and Wyoming. The team in South Dakota is supported by staff in those states.
The ACLU believes freedoms of press, speech, assembly, and religion, and the rights to due process, equal protection and privacy, are fundamental to a free people. In addition, the ACLU seeks to advance constitutional protections for groups traditionally denied their rights, including people of color, women, and the LGBTQ communities. The ACLU of South Dakota carries out its work through selective litigation, lobbying at the state and local level, and through public education and awareness of what the Bill of Rights means for the people of South Dakota.
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