Key Considerations
Fair elections are a critical cornerstone of a functioning democracy. Keep in mind that your work in this arena may be viewed as a reflection of the fairness, openness, and efficacy of local elections. Your work in this area may also effect the reputation of Extension in your county as a non-partisan educational partner. It may be helpful to consider the broader context and possible ramifications before diving in!
Best Practices
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An Educational Event,
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The Sensitivity of Elections
Case study: Bayfield County
One surprise I had in conducting my first "Run For It!" workshop was the general sensitivity to elections and election-related programs in our county. While my County Administrator was a strong proponent, there was a need for continued dialog throughout the process to ensure that the workshop was conducted with sensitivity to current elected officials. There were a verity of concerns that were brought to my attention that needed to be addressed. Some examples:
Initially, there was concern that the workshop would be viewed as a movement to displace current board members and elected officials, particularly those that were older men.
Each of these concerns were surprising to me as I was not used to working with such interest and oversight. One of the ways I needed to adjust was to lengthen the timelines, so that everything could be reviewed before it went out. Also, I had to double check the info so that constituents could rely in the information in order to build trust in the system. The end result was a great workshop that was well supported, but it made me realize that doing work related to elections requires additional sensitivity!"
Kellie Pederson, Community Development Educator, Bayfield County
One surprise I had in conducting my first "Run For It!" workshop was the general sensitivity to elections and election-related programs in our county. While my County Administrator was a strong proponent, there was a need for continued dialog throughout the process to ensure that the workshop was conducted with sensitivity to current elected officials. There were a verity of concerns that were brought to my attention that needed to be addressed. Some examples:
Initially, there was concern that the workshop would be viewed as a movement to displace current board members and elected officials, particularly those that were older men.
- Providing information on “running against an incumbent” was considered potentially threatening, and so language had to be softened to “skills to run in a challenging race”.
- Positioning the event as an opportunity for “new candidates” had to be softened as well, to “potential candidates” and “candidates interested in running”.
- Another concern included a headline in the poster discussing current electoral composition: The phrase “Only 20% are women” was changed to “20% are women. 80% are men.”
Each of these concerns were surprising to me as I was not used to working with such interest and oversight. One of the ways I needed to adjust was to lengthen the timelines, so that everything could be reviewed before it went out. Also, I had to double check the info so that constituents could rely in the information in order to build trust in the system. The end result was a great workshop that was well supported, but it made me realize that doing work related to elections requires additional sensitivity!"
Kellie Pederson, Community Development Educator, Bayfield County