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TexElects

Explore UT

  • A program of the Annette Strauss Institute for Civic Life
TexElects is contest that invites Texas high school students to design and create messages about the importance of voting.

ARTS FOR CIVIC ENGAGEMENT 

TexElects uniquely integrates arts and civics to engage Texas youth in the electoral process and inspire commitment to democratic participation. Every presidential and midterm election year, the contest acts as a unique supplement to civics and government instruction in high schools around the state.
 
The arts-integrated curriculum teaches students about the upcoming presidential or midterm election, the mechanics of participation and asks them to consider why citizens should vote.
 
The students exercise their new perspectives and knowledge to create non-partisan voter messaging pieces through an arts medium.
 

THE CONTEST

Students may compete in three categories:

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THE NEED

American democracy requires robust political participation: voting, holding representatives accountable, and ensuring that government represents the people. A society lacking in citizen participation is more prone to inefficiency, corruption, and unresponsive government. Texas ranks among the lowest states in the country in citizen political participation.

  • Out of the voting-eligible population in Texas, 46.3 percent voted in the 2018 midterm election.
  • Texas ranked 47th in voter turnout and 44th for voter registration for the 2016 presidential election.
  • Only 32% of Texans ages 18 to 24 voted in the 2016 election. Older Texans voted at a much higher rate, although still below the national average in every age group.

The program aims to combat these dismal statistics by preparing Texas high school students to take civic leadership positions in generating public awareness on the importance of voting and using their artistic skills to reshape perspectives on civic responsibility.  Texas civic life needs an infusion of innovation from young people and art is a powerful cultural tool to deliver their messages and inspire action.

Contact

Heather Vaughn, Educational Outreach Coordinator
512-471-7210 heather.vaughn@austin.utexas.edu

Thank you to our supporters and sponsors:

 

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Th Contemporary Austin

 


 
 
 
 
 
 
TexElects

2504 A Whitis Avenue (R2000)
Austin, TX 78712
512-471-1959
strauss.institute@austin.utexas.edu

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300 W. Dean Keeton (A0900)
Austin, TX 78712-1069
Phone: 512-471-5775
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