EDITORIAL: Get Involved


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If you want to have a say in how our community works–on campus or in town–now is the time to get involved. Participating in local public meetings is how you can stay informed.

Elections for presidents and governors might seem like the most important thing because they dominate the news, but local government can have a more direct impact on your daily life.

Local government officials shape our education system, taxes, public transportation and businesses–all of which directly affect campus and community members.

Listening to politicians speak about local issues can be boring, but staying informed is necessary. And so is asking questions. Most officials are happy to explain complex details.

Understanding the innerworks of public meetings can be like learning another language–difficult, but possible if you keep showing up.

College is the perfect time to start getting involved. The City of Mount Pleasant and Central Michigan University have plenty of opportunities to be civically engaged.

  • The Mount Pleasant City Commission meets at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month. The next meeting is on Sept. 12. Anyone is welcome to attend and give feedback about the community.
  • Student Government Association meetings are at 7 p.m. every Monday, starting on Sept. 19. Students can attend these meetings to share information or issues about CMU.
  • CMU's board of trustees meets once per semester. Its next meeting is on Sept. 22. The schedule and more details will be announced ahead of the session. All campus and community members are welcome to attend these meetings and submit feedback regarding CMU's current and future plans.
  • The Academic Senate meets at 3:30 p.m. every other Tuesday. Its first meeting of the semester is on Sept. 13. Any substantial changes to CMU's curriculum are discussed at senate meetings. Faculty members often attend these meetings to voice their concerns.

All of the above meetings have options to attend virtually.

There are other ways to have your voice heard, too. First of all, vote. Nov. 8 is Election Day.

You can also contact your local newspaper. Central Michigan Life is here to tell your stories. You can email us at editor@cm-life.com or submit an anonymous message to our tip line.

Civic engagement is one of the best ways to stay informed and make sure your voice is heard.

Start now. Get involved.

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