Nebraska State News

‘Very essence of self-government’: Statement on LB20 lawsuit

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 19:36:18 +0000

On July 29, 2024, Steve Smith, Civic Nebraska’s director of communications, addressed a news conference about the organization’s involvement in legal action to instruct the state’s executive branch to follow the law and begin registering voters whose civil rights have been restored under LB20. Here are his prepared remarks.

Thank you, everyone, for being here today. Hopefully, this is the first and last time we will have to gather to discuss this unprecedented and unfortunate situation.

As you’ve seen, Civic Nebraska is among the plaintiffs in the legal action brought today, and, this being a consequential election year, we hope the Court will deliver a speedy resolution.

Because we have work to do.

Civic Nebraska’s core mission is to engage and assist Nebraskans who wish to register to vote. We do this so that all of us can participate fully in our democratic society. And we believe that a truly representative democracy is possible only when as many voices as possible can be heard. Since LB20 passed overwhelmingly through the Nebraska Legislature in mid-April, Civic Nebraska has been conceiving, planning, and building a robust voter registration initiative to help the thousands of affected Nebraskans register.

This work was set to start July 19, but we were forced to halt that work – abruptly – less than two days before the law was to take effect because of the actions of our state’s executive branch. In having to reverse our plans, Civic Nebraska has incurred unexpected and unnecessary costs, and the fallout from the secretary of state’s actions has diverted our focus away from our mission.

So today, we have turned to the Nebraska Supreme Court to instruct the executive branch to do what it will not do; follow the law. It’s a straightforward request for the Court to confirm that Nebraskans who have fully paid their debt to society can register to vote according to the law on the books.

The stakes here are self-evident. The executive branch’s actions have disenfranchised a significant segment of our state’s electorate. Tens of thousands of voters’ rights have just disappeared at one person’s discretion.

This undermines the core democratic principles that Civic Nebraska strives to uphold. Our organization is committed to ensuring that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process. And it is well within our mission to challenge decisions such as this that unjustly disregard our fellow Nebraskans’ rights.

In closing, I’ll say this: By challenging this directive, Civic Nebraska is not simply joining a lawsuit to protect the rights of a finite number of our state’s voters. We are defending the very essence of democratic self-government – where every voice matters, every vote counts, and where no one should live in fear that their government is coming for more of their rights.

Thank you.

Nebraskans’ voting rights at stake in new lawsuit

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 15:37:16 +0000

Nebraskans who are at risk of being denied a vote this year are suing Nebraska’s top elections official and the Douglas and Hall County Election Commissioners to ensure they will have a voice at the polls this November. The outcome of their lawsuit will likely impact thousands of Nebraskans’ voting rights.

The American Civil Liberties Union, ACLU of Nebraska, and national law firm Faegre Drinker brought the challenge on behalf of Civic Nebraska and three individual plaintiffs.

The legal team filed the lawsuit directly with the Nebraska Supreme Court this morning, seeking court orders compelling certain actions from Secretary of State Robert Evnen, including issuing voter registration applications in accordance with voter restoration statutes and addressing the wrongful disqualification of voters with past felony convictions.

The case also seeks court orders compelling local election commissioners to allow Nebraskans with past felony convictions to register to vote if they have completed all terms of their sentence and are otherwise eligible to vote, as is required under state law.

Today’s filings include a request for justices to approve bypassing litigation at the district court level given the nature and urgency of the case.

The lawsuit is in response to Evnen recently directing county election officials to refuse to register Nebraskans with past felony convictions in defiance of a law that passed the Nebraska Legislature requiring the restoration of voting rights to all Nebraska citizens who have completed the terms of their felony sentence.

Evnen has said he is following a recent opinion from Attorney General Mike Hilgers that only the Nebraska Board of Pardons has the power to restore Nebraskans’ voting rights after a felony conviction. This three-member board includes Hilgers, Evnen, and Gov. Jim Pillen. This opinion is non-binding and cannot overturn a law passed by the Nebraska Legislature.

Evnen’s directive effectively orders county election officials to disregard state law. Since 2005, Nebraskans with past felony convictions have been legally able to vote two years after completing all terms of a felony sentence, including probation and parole.

“Civic Nebraska built a robust voter registration initiative to help thousands of affected Nebraskans register under the new law. We were forced to halt that work less than two days before the law was to take effect because of the unilateral action of our state’s executive branch,” said Steve Smith, Civic Nebraska’s director of communications. “We have turned to the Nebraska Supreme Court to instruct the executive branch to do what it will not do: follow the law.”

This year, a bipartisan majority of Nebraska state senators removed the two-year wait. Nebraska’s Voting Rights Restoration Coalition estimates at least 7,000 Nebraskans should be newly eligible to vote this year thanks to the change.

The Nebraskans bringing this action include T.J. King, an Omahan who wishes to register as a Democrat, Gregory Spung, an Omahan who hopes to register as Nonpartisan, and Jeremy Jonak of Wood River, who wants to register as a Republican. All three want to vote in this November’s election. Organizational plaintiff Civic Nebraska hopes to conduct planned registration efforts for newly eligible voters, but cannot do so because of Evnen’s order.

›› “We have paid our debt in full, and we should be fully included in our democracy. Being a productive member of society comes with many responsibilities, including jobs, bills, and taxes. Those are essential, and so is having a say in who represents us and how tax dollars are spent.” – T.J. King, plaintiff

›› “To me, this is about being fully part of society now that I have made up for a past mistake. There is an important election ahead of us, and I was excited that I could be part of it. All we are asking is for officials to follow the law and let us vote.” – Gregory Spung, plaintiff

›› “Once someone has done their time, they deserve a second chance. I firmly believe that. I hope I can help make a difference — not just for my sake — but everyone else who has earned their second chance and has a right to vote.” – Jeremy Jonak, plaintiff

›› “It is hard to overstate how much is at stake. Unless the courts step in, our state’s top elections official will stop our clients and thousands of other Nebraskans from having a say in this November’s election. These are Nebraskans who have done their time, who by state law have a right to vote, and who are working, paying taxes and contributing to our communities. We are confident in the constitutionality of the laws that these officials want to ignore, and we are ready to make our case to make sure that every eligible voter can participate in our democracy.” – Jane Seu, legal and policy counsel, ACLU of Nebraska

›› “The Nebraska Constitution is clear: Only courts can overturn a law as unconstitutional. Yet the secretary of state’s directive attempts to do just that, undermining the will of the voters and lawlessly reinstating permanent felony disenfranchisement by executive fiat. It would overturn a law passed by the democratically elected legislature, re-disenfranchise thousands of Nebraska citizens, and upend two decades of rights restoration law less than four months from a presidential election. It cannot stand.” – Jonathan Topaz, ACLU Voting Rights Project

›› The ACLU of Nebraska and Civic Nebraska advocated for the passage of the voter restoration law as members of Nebraska’s Voting Rights Restoration Coalition. Polling commissioned by the ACLU of Nebraska showed a strong majority of surveyed Nebraskans in support of the change.

Brothers, or fools?

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 18:54:11 +0000

“We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.”

Martin Luther King Jr. uttered those famous words more than 60 years ago, and they remain a powerful call for unity, compassion, and cooperation among Americans from all walks of life. Today, amid our nation’s political, social, and cultural turmoil, they remind us that we can – and must – come together in times of strife.

King and other civil rights leaders of his time faced powerful, entrenched forces that fought to preserve the status quo. But they knew that mass mobilization to a shared cause ran deep in our American DNA – and so they built alliances across race, faith, background, and station that ultimately brought us closer to a more perfect union. Do we Americans have it in us to come together in 2024, in what has already been a wild, often-infuriating election year? We believe, of course, that this is possible – we wouldn’t do what we do if we didn’t believe in our fellow citizens to join forces on behalf of the common good.

Unity is not just a lofty ideal. It’s a practical necessity. In a diverse nation of 340 million, we inevitably have differences based on race, religion, culture, and political beliefs. The question is: Will we now let these differences be a source of conflict or a source of strength? If we honestly acknowledge our differences, we can still harness our collective talents and perspectives to solve common problems and create a better future – for everyone, not just the Americans on “our side.” Here are a few ways to realize unity in America in the 21st century.

Honesty, curiosity, and empathy

Unity begins with being honest with ourselves, especially in how we perceive – and judge – other Americans and their lives. If we open our hearts and minds in a good-faith effort to understand and appreciate the experiences and perspectives of others, anything is possible.

This isn’t something that can happen on social media. It happens face-to-face and requires us to listen and suspend our need to win every argument. By building bridges instead of walls, we can foster meaningful connections and break down barriers of misunderstanding and prejudice.

Action items: Attend functions in your neighborhood and talk with others. Attend events such as the Nebraska Storytellers Festival to appreciate the different lived experiences in our community. Go to public lectures, talks, or forums on various community issues. Start or join a book club.

Better arguments are out there

To truly understand one another, Americans must break free from their respective bubbles and be willing to engage in open and respectful dialogue. This also requires vulnerability, which can be uncomfortable and difficult and lead to unpredictable encounters and exchanges. At Civic Nebraska, we work to provide safe spaces where all Nebraskans feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings without fear of angry rebuttal.

Action items: Attend community forums, town hall meetings, or online platforms that facilitate these important conversations. Review our civil discourse resources and implement their lessons to have better, quintessentially American arguments.

A more equal union

We can’t say we want unity while passively or actively allowing social and economic inequalities to widen among us. Addressing these disparities requires comprehensive policies that promote equal opportunities for all – access to quality education, healthcare, and fair wages, just to name a few examples. Simply put, unity is not possible unless marginalized communities are empowered through resources, opportunities, and amplifying their voices in decision-making.

Action items: Learn about the issues, root causes, and impact of inequality on different communities. Donate your time and skills to organizations that support underprivileged communities.

Leadership and accountability

Leaders at all levels play a crucial role in bringing people together. They must lead by example and demonstrate integrity, empathy, and a commitment to including a wide range of voices, not just those who agree with them politically. As voters, we must choose leaders who can rally people around a common vision and motivate them to work towards shared goals.

Likewise, institutions, whether governmental, corporate, or educational, must be transparent and accountable to build trust and credibility. Institutions must actively work to dismantle systems of oppression and inequality.

Action items: Vote for leaders who will work on behalf of everyone, not just a subset of our society. Support measures and tools – FOIAs, whistleblower protections, ethics policies, open-meetings laws – that ensure transparency and accountability in our institutions.

Unity is not a pie-in-the-sky fantasy about living peacefully together – it’s about creating a country where every American is valued, respected, and given a real chance to succeed. As we enter the final months of a contentious election year, remember that our strongest national power is our ability to come together, support one another, and work toward the common good. Only then can we live fully – not as fools, but as brothers and sisters in a shared American family.

Nebraskans’ voting rights are at risk

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 19:27:43 +0000

Dear friends,

We have two important updates about voting rights in Nebraska, including a familiar concern that may return to the statehouse during a special session.

Justice delayed on LB20

›› On July 17, Secretary of State Bob Evnen directed election officials to stop registering Nebraska voters with past felony convictions, regardless of how long it’s been since they completed their sentences. This directive follows an opinion from the Attorney General that alleges only the Board of Pardons has the authority to restore voting rights.

›› Secretary Evnen said he intends to ask the Board of Pardons to accommodate affected Nebraska voters who registered after waiting out our state’s additional two-year waiting period. But his directive excludes Nebraskans who are now ending their waiting period, as well as those affected by the passage of LB20 earlier this year.

›› In April, Nebraska lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to eliminate the two-year waiting period, allowing people to vote as soon as they complete the terms of their sentence. LB20 was passed into law, but Evnen has made it clear that he will not comply with the new law.

›› This means significant uncertainty for many Nebraskans who already face a range of barriers to political involvement. Even if state officials change their stance and ultimately follow the law, the chilling effect on affected voters could be substantial.

›› Civic Nebraska and its partners are exploring every option to address the ramifications of the secretary of state’s directive. In the meantime, if you believe you are eligible to vote but have questions or are facing challenges in registering, please contact us (402-890-5291) or our friends at ACLU of Nebraska. We can help.

›› If you believe you are directly affected by the secretary of state’s decision, we encourage you to sign up for our email updates if you haven’t yet. Also, please let us know your interest in registering to vote (402-890-5291) – this will allow us to follow up with you as soon as this situation is resolved. Also, here are answers to frequently asked questions.

We’ll keep you posted. Stay tuned.

Special session and winner-take-all

In April, our State Capitol was in a frenzy thanks to outside interests’ last-minute attempt to push through a winner-take-all Electoral College system in Nebraska. The effort failed, but since then the governor has maintained that if there is enough support to bring up winner-take-all during this month’s special session on taxes, then he would like to see it return for debate and a vote.

We opposed the measure then, emphasizing that our one-house Legislature requires lawmaking to be thoughtful and deliberate, which was impossible given the nature of such an 11th-hour attempt. We also believe our split electoral vote system respects and amplifies the diverse voices of Nebraskans. Our current system fosters engagement, fairness, and political balance, which are crucial for a healthy democracy.

Civic Nebraska promised to launch a referendum initiative if the Legislature succumbed to the pressure to switch last spring. We renew that pledge today. We’ll be keeping a close eye on the session and we will act if necessary, and we encourage you to do the same. In addition to sharing our email updates, please consider a donation to support our efforts, both to protect our state’s electoral system and to restore the vote for justice-impacted Nebraskans.

We are in extraordinary times, and we are thankful that we have such extraordinary supporters. Thank you for your continued commitment to democracy, and your support for the voices of every Nebraskan.

Best,

– Your friends and neighbors at Civic Nebraska

Statement on secretary of state’s LB20 directive

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 23:20:29 +0000

On Wednesday, July 17, 2024, the Nebraska Voting Rights Restoration Coalition issued the following statement following an announcement by the Nebraska Secretary of State’s Office directing election commissioners not to enforce LB20.

“For nearly 20 years, the state has delayed justice for thousands of Nebraskans by forcing an additional two-year waiting period to vote after the completion of a felony sentence. The Attorney General’s opinion and the Secretary of State’s announcement – made public less than 48 hours before a law to remedy this is to take effect – unnecessarily introduces more uncertainty, delay, and complication. Their action exacerbates the inherent difficulties faced by voters whose civil rights were finally restored by the Nebraska Legislature just three months ago.

“We cannot allow this decision to stand unchallenged. We stand with voters who have served their time and deserve to participate fully in our democracy. Nebraska’s Voting Rights Restoration Coalition is considering all options for immediate relief to ensure that justice delayed does not become justice denied.”

Apathy: democracy’s biggest threat

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 17:33:41 +0000

“Democracy is not a spectator sport.” That’s a popular saying among activists and advocates, regardless of where they are on the political spectrum. In other words, we get out of democracy what we put into it. If we sit back and rely on others’ time, talent, and treasure to shape our shared society, we surrender our ability to co-create our shared democratic reality. But by stepping into the public square, by joining other active and engaged citizens, we forge bonds and continually connect in pursuit of substantive change. Through these contacts, we become advocates in creating, constructing, and protecting our civic society.

So, it’s probably more accurate to add a line to that popular saying: Democracy is not a spectator sport, it’s a contact sport.

As Americans, we have a tradition of activating and advocating for our beliefs. This has taken many forms, from sit-ins and boycotts to marches and vigils, from speeches to public art and performances. These traditions are enshrined in our founding doctrine, which bestows upon us the rights and responsibilities to participate with purpose – out in the open – and inspire others to join in. Public activism is a time-honored building block of America.

These democratic activities charge us with civic power. They confirm to us that others in our community see the world as we do. By speaking our truths and bearing witness, we contribute to a sense of being part of something larger than ourselves. Collective action is a powerful bonding agent; our public participation in movements, marches, and organized dissent sustains long-term momentum for our chosen cause. It transforms us from casual participants to lifelong activists.

These pursuits have more urgent purposes, of course. At their core, they are a straightforward demand for change. They’re a loud cry for a wider understanding of an issue, a call to right a wrong or a series of wrongs. They don’t only draw power from their numbers but from urgency. Someone just learning of the issue at hand for the first time may see a protest, march, or performance and ask: What prompted so many people to show up, and why today? Demonstrations that convey that the issue at hand is so urgent that the time for idleness is over often leads to larger conversations, which can then lead to lasting and meaningful change.

You might be thinking: I thought that was what voting was for. You’ll get no argument here about the importance of casting ballots as a direct and potent way to affect change. Voting is fundamental to democracy. It’s also a natural progression from being a casual participant to an engaged activist to a lifelong voter.

While protests tend to emerge when Americans feel their voices are not being heard and urgency demands we cannot wait for the next Election Day, channeling street-level activism into electoral power is a key step to breakthrough change. Steadily and surely, social movements change the status quo.

“Power concedes nothing without a demand,” Frederick Douglass once said. Recent movements have confirmed the resonant truth of Douglass’s words – the fight for racial justice, science and religious freedom, women’s empowerment, gun rights and gun reform all have displayed that democracy is a contact sport. That very fact means we can’t leave it to others to show up for us.

Easy does it: 5 ways to weather political uncertainty

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 21:10:47 +0000

Let’s face it: Our modern political atmosphere, particularly at the national level, is a nonstop rollercoaster ride that is leaving many Americans stressed and anxious. The constant stream of news updates, social media debates, and political drama can make it hard to find calmness and peace. There are, of course, ways to manage your anxiety and find peace, even when everything seems chaotic. Here are five ways to help you find peace and calm, and to stay centered.

1. Cut down on news consumption.

Staying informed is important in a democratic society. But there’s a limit to how much we can absorb before we’re overwhelmed. Constantly checking the news can go from curious to unhealthy fairly quickly, so try setting specific times to catch up on the news. Maybe it’s once in the morning and once in the evening, like it used to be in the days before digital media. Stick to reliable sources and steer clear of clickbait headlines that can spike your anxiety – if someone is trying to make you angry, upset, or anxious, they’re doing it for a reason. So set boundaries on your news intake. The goal is to stay informed, not to be bombarded into submission by an endless stream of “content.”

2. Try mindfulness and meditation.

For managing anxiety, particularly the type that is created by national news headlines, mindfulness and meditation can be game-changers. These practices help you focus on the present moment, which can reduce worries about the future or regrets about the past. Incorporate a few minutes of mindfulness into your day with deep breathing exercises, guided meditations, or even a short walk where you pay attention to your surroundings. Even a little bit every day can make a big difference.

3. Get moving.

You knew this one was coming. Exercise is a natural way to relieve stress and boost your mood. Physical activity releases endorphins, the feel-good chemicals in our brains. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, dancing, or hitting the gym for some high-intensity cardio, find a physical activity you enjoy and make it part of your routine. Regular exercise can help you feel more balanced and less anxious.

4. Connect with others.

Human connections are crucial for democracy, and they’re crucial for our mental well-being. Reach out to friends and family, or join a support group to share how you’re feeling. Offering your thoughts and worries to others can help you feel less alone and more supported. Plus, participating in positive social activities, like volunteering or community events, can shift your focus from anxiety to something more uplifting.

5. Focus on what you can control.

It’s easy to feel powerless during times of political uncertainty. So instead of stressing over things you can’t change, focus on what you can control. This could be organizing your daily tasks, setting personal goals, or getting involved in local projects. Putting your energy into productive activities gives you a sense of purpose and control – and can help ease feelings of helplessness.

The rapid ups and downs of the political world can be tough to handle, but taking care of your mental health is key. The good news is that the steps outlined above are tried-and-true methods to manage anxiety and find calm amid the chaos. Remember, your well-being matters.

From ‘Us vs. Them’ to ‘Reclaiming We’

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 20:57:19 +0000

If the past few weeks are any indication, by the time Nov. 5 rolls around the 2024 election will end up being the noisiest and most angst-ridden campaign in modern history. There are many reasons for this, of course, but in our estimation, the main driver is the almost unimaginable amount of money being poured into our political processes to enrage, inflame, and divide us.

This might not be done in direct support of one particular candidate or political party, necessarily, but the results are usually the same. When Americans are relentlessly bombarded with divisive messaging, eventually they do one of two things – they either get sucked into the conflict, usually to an unhealthy degree; or, to protect their sanity, they check out and stop participating in our shared democratic reality.

Neither is good for our country. Of course, U.S. politics are not for the squeamish. They are not designed for frequent kumbaya breaks and naive reminders that we’re “all in this together.” But we’d be lying if we hadn’t noticed an even more acute shift in 2024 – away from a competitive, perhaps even heated competition of ideas and even further toward the apocalyptic “Us-vs.-Them” narrative.

In 2021, we published a short paperback titled Reclaiming We. It was designed to be a pocket guide of everyday acts every individual American could take to strengthen the common good (and therefore, defend democracy). We wrote it with a collective return to sober and rational self-government in mind, and as a reminder that ultimately, it’s not party leaders or presidents who are responsible for making our nation a better place to live work, play, and thrive. It’s up to us. At the end of the day, while our chattering political classes will continue making noise from inside the Beltway as if they speak for all Americans, the 340 million of us who live here must settle on how to coexist despite our differences.

Combative, divisive politics are en vogue right now, but here’s the surest thing we know: Eventually, this leads to mutually assured destruction – guaranteed. If we were writing a follow-up to Reclaiming We today, we could add several new everyday acts to help bring the “Us-vs-Them” virus to heel. Here are but 10.

1. Stay cool.

Because, mainly, cooler heads tend to prevail. Honestly, in an election year, we all should be arguing right now about the best path forward for our country, and which candidates can best get us there. Notice we say arguing, not fighting. America has been fighting too much lately, figuratively and literally. The commitment to civil discourse and measured rhetoric starts with our elected officials – national, state, and local – as well as our major news media. Each has a special responsibility to model how to debate ideas, not tear people down for sport. And we everyday citizens have a responsibility to amplify productive, thoughtful debate when we see it, not just forwarding memes and stories about our political opponents getting dunked on.

2. Get media-savvy.

Speaking of media: In case you haven’t noticed yet, political media is noisy. The volume is sometimes so frenetic and confusing that it can be impossible to spot the signal amid all of it. In an election year – especially in an election year – we Americans must be vigilant in spotting agenda-driven news content, take it for what it is, and treat it accordingly. The same goes for news content that brings new information to the fore and challenges us to think critically. It’s beyond cliche to implore our fellow Americans to better consider what we read, watch, and hear, but in the age of disinformation, bot farms, and weaponized AI, we have to be skeptical about any campaign headline that comes down the pike, not just the ones we disagree with.

3. Work together.

Believe it or not, social media is not the real world and Americans coast-to-coast are more alike than they are different. Because of this rock-solid fact, there are still many entry points for projects and policies that require bipartisan and nonpartisan collaboration at the federal, state, and local levels. Find them, learn about them, and support them. Further, let’s be sure to give props to politicians who work across the aisle to get things done. It used to be a noble thing in America to work with people in the “other” party, and it’s something we must return to if we are to sustain our American experiment.

4. Lean into civic education and engagement.

Americans as a whole have a civics deficiency. In election years, the hole is particularly glaring. Our Constitution wasn’t intended to be weaponized; our president was never supposed to be above the law; our voting rights were not earned so we could casually dismiss them. Together, we can push for more – and better – civic education in our community’s schools so every young person understands how our democratic republic works, where we’ve been as a nation, and what is yet possible. Adults, especially adults who have a distaste for partisan politics, can join and look for local forums or town halls to discuss relevant issues without the party labels. In the words of Thomas Jefferson: “A well-informed citizenry is the best defense against tyranny.”

5. Seek common goals.

There’s a lot of money to be made in keeping Americans divided. But yet, we all live here, on the North American continent in 2024 AD, and we will continue to live together after Nov. 5. There are so many problems that affect everyone – healthcare, education, infrastructure – that are waiting to be seriously addressed, yet so much time, attention, and worry is placed on narrow wedge issues that affect far fewer people and groups but fire up the Reddest of the Red or the Bluest of the Blue. We can start to reject reflexive polarization by getting involved in local projects that bring people together (neighborhood associations are a great place to begin). Then, from there, we can build upward, together.

6. Support fixes to our systems.

This one could be a post of its own, but needless to say, many of our election structures are overdue for structural reform. We’re not talking about baseless accusations of “voter fraud” and other toxic conspiracy theories; we mean systemic change in how we select our leaders and forge our national, state, and local priorities. At the state level, open primaries would be one way to turn down the heat, keep silly season at bay, and allow voters to pick their best candidate for the job at hand. Primary candidates currently have to pander to their parties’ extremes, which results in general election matchups of radically different visions of our society. Also: If the 2024 election season doesn’t convince a plurality of Americans that campaign finance reform is long overdue, we’re not sure what will. Politicians must be accountable to the people, not corporations and other big-money donors. Entrenched interests don’t hand over power willingly; we must be vigilant in pushing for systemic reforms that put the power and influence back where it belongs.

7. Practice empathy.

It may sound simple, even cliché. But we do best as a nation when we remember that our political opponents are people, too. The vast majority have real concerns and wish to be seen and heard. This is hard and can assault our sensibilities, but it is necessary in a free country. This doesn’t mean inviting a white supremacist over for dinner for a friendly chat – but it does mean that we all get a little closer to understanding and empathy if we listen to personal stories from different communities, in whatever format. In Omaha, Rick Galusha moderates the Free Speech Society. In Lincoln, Jason Christianson moderates All Politics Is Local, where all views are welcomed and empathy overwhelmingly wins over anger and mutual attacks. Find these and other entry points to bring others into three dimensions rather than abstract “enemies.”

8. Don’t isolate.

In 2024, fear has emerged as a common thread among voters, regardless of political persuasion. Much of it is the result of being in our bubbles, doomscrolling, and limiting our engagement with others. Social media is a petri dish of anxiety, as are the 24/7/365 cable TV news networks and online media; their collective motto might as well be STAY SCARED!. But as we have said: In a world of perpetual fear, the definition of we is so very narrow. Action drives out fear, so we would do well to get out of the house and get involved – whether with community events that mix different groups, like service projects and cultural festivals, or in social spaces that more easily allow you to meet, build relationships with, and collaborate with people from different backgrounds and who may have different beliefs than yours. Trust is contagious; we just need more of it.

9. Tackle inequality.

The last time the United States was this divided was The Gilded Age (1865-1902), which featured similar social, technological, economic, and demographic changes to what we’re going through today. That era gave way to the Progressive Era, a time of widespread social activism and political reform across the country. We can and should push for, and relentlessly support, policies and proposals that address income inequality to give everyone a fair shot. At Civic Nebraska we believe a truly representative democracy is realized only when all voices are genuinely heard, and the path forward is built on a strong education system, a compassionate approach to health care, and an inclusive economy that leaves no one behind. If those ideals are realized, there would be little worry about punitive, reactionary measures like the new ID mandate in Nebraska to vote. As is, it creates unnecessary barriers for underresourced and underrepresented Americans to fully exercise their most precious Constitutional rights – and deepens inequality.

10. Demand accountability.

Call out politicians, commentators, and pundits who deal exclusively in divisive rhetoric. We must consistently remind our fellow Americans that scorched-earth politics are a dead end, and encourage everyone to support a politics that lifts up rather than tears down – and to call out the arsonists when appropriate. This doesn’t mean there’s no room for criticism and spirited debate between candidates and their supporters; but after all is said and done, one thing is true above all: Us-vs-Them politics takes a toll on us all. All of us are affected, and we all carry the scars and burdens of shattered relationships and the death of discourse, regardless of who wins in November.

We can do better. We have to do better. So, shall we?

Building bridges across the American divide

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 18:06:50 +0000

We often say that “We, the People” means our youngest Americans, too: Introducing young people to a wider world helps develop their critical thinking, civic leadership, and civil discourse skills and prepares them for a lifetime of active citizenship. Earlier this year, when the American Exchange Project approached Civic Nebraska about hosting high-school students from around the country for a week of cultural exchange, we were grateful to lend a hand.

The American Exchange Project, or AEP, builds connections through cultural immersion, community events, professional development, and volunteer opportunities to understand local issues. From June 19-26, Civic Nebraska hosted four amazing young people through the project – and by the time the week was over, we were overflowing with optimism and enthusiasm for our nation’s future. Throughout the week, Eloise (Palo Alto, California); Gabe (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania); Daniel (Cleveland, Ohio), and Evelyn (Kilgore, Texas) demonstrated thoughtfulness, curiosity, and eagerness to step into unfamiliar spaces in the spirit of connecting more closely with a larger world.

“Having lived in Lincoln for 25 years, it was thought-provoking to see our home through the eyes of a young visitor for a week,” said Heidi Uhing, Civic Nebraska’s director of public policy who, with her husband Scott, hosted Evelyn from Texas. “We had several great talks about the political divides in our country, and throughout the week we learned from her the geographic and cultural differences in the different regions of her vast state, her love for fried pickles, and her clear and heart-warming appreciation for the tight-knit community her small town provides.

“We’re grateful to have met Evelyn and commend her for the bravery it takes to travel to an unfamiliar place.”

Students spent time in city parks, dined at locally owned restaurants, and enjoyed cultural stops like the Sheldon Museum of Art. They also toured Lincoln’s Kawasaki plant, met independent downtown business owners, and hung out with artists running pop-up shops at neighborhood makers’ markets. Then, toward the end of their week in Nebraska, they took part in a special Capitol Experience Day and learned about Nebraska’s unique form of government. They met with a state senator and volunteered at a local food bank.

A common theme throughout the students’ stay: While there were obvious differences between Lincoln and each of their hometowns, they found moments to remember that Americans are a lot more alike than they are different. That empathy is AEP’s purpose: With hyper-polarization undermining our faith in one another and American democracy, today’s students risk growing up isolated, burdening their mental health and limiting their development as young citizens. Through its partner schools and organizations, AEP imparts timeless American ideals: Welcoming strangers, community pride, responsibility for all our community’s children, and passing down age-old American character to new generations.

Our sincere thanks to AEP for connecting Civic Nebraska with these dynamic, clever, and motivated young people – and for sincerely connecting youth across the country to promote friendship and understanding at an important point in their lives. We’re honored to be part of the nationwide effort to encourage young people to explore their country and discover what it means to be an American.

Strengthening Democracy Awards: What a night!

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 19:44:27 +0000

On Thursday, June 27, more than 260 friends and supporters gathered at the Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts on the University of Nebraska campus for the 2024 Strengthening Democracy Awards. It was a rejuvenating, joyful, and inspiring evening for all – and a rousing call to action by the evening’s keynote speaker, Tennessee State Rep. Justin J. Pearson of Memphis.

“I have faith in democracy because evil never gets the last word. This lesson that our faith must be rooted in democracy is because I have faith in you – the U.S. – the us,” said Pearson, who with another legislator was expelled from the Tennessee Legislature in April 2023 for staging a protest in support of stronger gun laws in his state. Voters overwhelmingly returned him to the seat later that year.

“I have hope and I have faith in our democracy because I know you,” he continued. “Our hope and faith in democracy can’t be rooted in who is president or not … it has to be rooted in the people whose names we never know, but whose impact is quite literally changing the fabric of the future. That’s why we’re here today; we’re celebrating the champions and defenders of democracy … (and) we must always remember that the roots of democracy upon which we rely are strong.”

Civic Nebraska honored four individuals and one group during the evening for their everyday acts to strengthen, protect, and expand our democratic way of life. They included Bob Reeves (Community Builder), Juan Carlos Huertas (Civic Catalyst), EDGE Nebraska City (Champion of Learning), Chloe Patzloff (Young Civic Leader), and Brad Christian-Sallis (The Jan Gradwohl Memorial Defender of Democracy).

The celebration also commemorated the service of Executive Director and Founder Adam Morfeld, who announced June 24 that he would be stepping down on Aug. 1 after 16 years at the helm. Director of Development Kyle Cartwright, who will serve as interim executive director, announced the creation of a new honor – the Adam S. Morfeld Founder’s Award – to be given annually to a Nebraskan for significant and transformative success in creating a more modern and robust democracy for all Nebraskans.

“Civic Nebraska is so much more than just about one person. It’s about all of you,” Morfeld said. “It’s about making sure our democracy is truly representative no matter who they are, what they’re doing and where they are in their lives. That’s the focus of Civic Nebraska – and that mission goes beyond any one of us.”

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 04:45:00 +0000

1869: The Ponca Natives put in 300 acres of crops that had just started to grow when grasshoppers virtually destroyed them.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 04:45:00 +0000

1869: Brevet Maj. Gen. Christopher Columbus Agur was named commander of the Army's Department of the Platte.

Jim McKee: North Lincoln's hidden castle

Sat, 13 Apr 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Arbor Manor was home to food, entertainment before peacocks and other pets.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 04:45:00 +0000

1869: Lincoln completed incorporation.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 04:45:00 +0000

1869: Duncan, then called Jackson, was established as a flag station on the Union Pacific Railroad between Columbus and Silver Creek.

Jim McKee: From historic hotel to a haunted one

Sat, 30 Mar 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Scribner was home to a hotel that was ahead of its time.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 04:45:00 +0000

1869: Conflicts were arising in western Nebraska between cattlemen, whose herds fed on free pastures, and the Grangers, who were settling and fencing small farms.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 04:45:00 +0000

1869: A petition asking for formal incorporation of the town of Lincoln was signed by a sufficient number of citizens to make it valid, starting the process of incorporation.

Jim McKee: From the chamber to a convention spot

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 13:00:00 +0000

A familiar spot in Lincoln has a long and unexpected history, with a very new chapter being written now.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 05:45:00 +0000

1869: There were no railroads in the South Platte region even though Lincoln was being established as the capital of Nebraska. To encourage railroad building, Congress promised to grant half the land on either side of the track for a…

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 05:45:00 +0000

1869: The Rev. P.B. Ruch established a Methodist Church at Rulo, which had lacked one for many years.

Jim McKee: The naming of Knox County and siting its seat

Sat, 02 Mar 2024 14:00:00 +0000

As county changed, one building went from opera house to pizza place to ashes.

Grass burning in Kansas, Oklahoma could affect health for Nebraska residents

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 02:30:00 +0000

The annual prairie grass burning season has begun in Kansas and Oklahoma, which could mean irritating smoke rolling north into Nebraska.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 05:45:00 +0000

1869: Immigration throughout the state was increasing rapidly.

Jim McKee: Music from the soul of Nebraska

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Wahoo has been home to many notables, but only one has his Wahoo home on the National Register of Historic Places.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 05:45:00 +0000

1869: The proposed University of Nebraska was approved by the Legislature, and Gov. David Butler signed the chartering bill.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 05:45:00 +0000

1869: The Nebraska Commonwealth predicted that Lincoln was destined to be a "City of Churches." Said the newspaper: "Every denomination, we think, is already represented in a church organization, except the Presbyterian, ... with a view toward organization."

21-year-old man pleads to manslaughter for fatally shooting teen in Imperial

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Tristan Ferguson could get up to 20 years in prison on the charge for killing Jesse Krausnick unintentionally while in the commission of an unlawful act.

Nebraska Supreme Court hears arguments over speedy-trial issue

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 16:30:00 +0000

"The burden is on the state to produce that evidence," Assistant Douglas County Public Defender Cindy Tate said. "And that evidence in this case is lacking."

Jim McKee: 'Flax seed man' and founder one of Lincoln's great community leaders

Sun, 04 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000

John Wright probably doesn't ring a bell for Lincoln residents, but in the late 1870s and into the 1920s he was considered one of our great community leaders and businessmen.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 04 Feb 2024 05:45:00 +0000

1869: The population of Lincoln was reported to be increasing rapidly, and enthusiastic boosters of Nebraska's new Capital City forecast that the pace would continue.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 05:45:00 +0000

1869: The proposed University of Nebraska was still a major issue in the Legislature.

Jim McKee: Getting from Gates to Doane

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Gates College took a lot of twists and turns before becoming part of Doane.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 05:45:00 +0000

1869: One of the big issues facing the Legislature was establishment of the proposed University of Nebraska - especially how, when and where.

This Week In Nebraska History

Sun, 14 Jan 2024 05:45:00 +0000

1869: Gov. David Butler's message to the Legislature included proposals for construction of an insane asylum, penitentiary and governor's mansion within two years.

This Week In Nebraska History

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 05:45:00 +0000

145 years ago: The County Agricultural Society again was faced with whether to put up $3,500 to buy the State Fairgrounds. The University of Nebraska Board of Regents had sold the land to the Exposition Co. on the condition that…

Jim McKee: Bank failure left early mark on Lincoln

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Early Lincoln bank was too big to fail until it failed.

Jim McKee: Another Ak-Sar-Ben (Nebraska spelled backwards) connection

Sun, 24 Dec 2023 15:00:00 +0000

A familiar name is linked to Eppley Airfield and a trans-continental airmail service.

Jury hears closing arguments in Nebraska's 2017 Tecumseh prison riot murder case

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 01:00:00 +0000

"All we know is that that day a group of inmates decided to play God, to take life away from Michael Galindo," the prosecutor said in closing arguments Monday.

Jim McKee: The story of the disappearing Nebraska county

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 15:00:00 +0000

After several twists and turns, Blackbird County disappeared from the Nebraska's maps.

Jim McKee: The history behind Havelock's theaters

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Technology and competition shaped the evolution of theaters in Havelock.

Murder trial starts over killing during Nebraska's 2017 Tecumseh prison riot

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 01:30:00 +0000

Though several inmates were involved in the killing during Nebraska's 2017 Tecumseh prison riot, Eric Ramos was the only inmate charged. His trial began Wednesday.

Jim McKee: The history behind Omaha's first apartment complex

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 15:00:00 +0000

The changing course of the Missouri River and worldwide expo figured into the story of Omaha's first apartment complex.

Jim McKee: Doubling up on churches

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 13:00:00 +0000

First came the towns, then came the churches. And came issues about which church was really the "first."

Jim McKee: Dakota County makes its mark

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 21:00:00 +0000

Despite being on of the state's smallest, Dakota County has lots of history and is still making it.

Parents of woman who died of fentanyl-related overdose sue Lincoln club

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Taryn Griffith's parents, Mike and Liz Griffith, are suing BSR Inc., which does business as The Office Gentlemen's Club, alleging the staff's negligence led to their daughter's wrongful death.

Nigerian national extradited to Nebraska for $6M business email spoofing fraud

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 17:30:00 +0000

Alex Ogunshakin, who was on the FBI Cyber’s Most Wanted List, was arrested in Nigeria and ultimately surrendered to the United States.

Jim McKee: Banks come, go; buildings still standing

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 13:00:00 +0000

The banks -- and bankers -- of University Place are filled with interesting stories.

Jim McKee: The demise of a town and a university

Sat, 30 Sep 2023 13:00:00 +0000

Bad breaks and bad timing spelled doom for a college in Madison, Nebraska.

High court affirms Garcia's convictions, death sentence for Omaha revenge killings

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 23:00:00 +0000

"The crimes committed against Hunter, Sherman, Roger and Mary were utterly senseless and cruel," the chief justice said in the decision Friday in Anthony Garcia's case.