Empowering Voters, Maggy MacNikol, 2024
This book looks at ways for the average voter to feel like they really can change things, Locally or nationally.
Part of this book takes place in the fictional town of Greeneville. Bianca, the new mayor, realizes that the education system is very uneven. What can be done to help those in the underserved part of town? She can't impose a solution from above; no one will go along. She organizes a series of town halls, bringing together everyone, including students, parents, teachers and local businesses. People will care a lot more if they have a hand in crafting the solution. Deciding on the right answers is half the battle; implementing them is much harder. Every town has multiple "issues;" just do one at a time.
There are bigger issues; the book gives the example of a proposed high-speed train between two cities in Europe. Some are opposed for environmental reasons; the proposed route will go through a pristine mountain valley. Others are in favor because of the jobs it will provide. It will also take all those cars off the road, which will help the environment. This is where civil society organizations (CSO) and non-governmental organizations (NGO) come in. They can help find a middle ground that everyone can accept. Also very helpful are advocacy groups and lobbying organizations.
This book is recommended for everyone who has the passion to change things, but is less sure about just how to do it.
