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The University of Michigan
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Democracy & Debate 2023-24

A university-wide educational initiative, Democracy & Debate encourages students, faculty, staff, and the Michigan community to explore the exchange of ideas and free speech, the responsibilities of members of a democratic society, structural inequalities in our democratic systems, the power of the voice of the individual voter, and democracy from a local to a global perspective.

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Dialogues for Democracy
“The University of Michigan Press publishes cutting edge resources on voting, rights, and controversy in American politics. The Dialogues in Democracy collection helps students, scholars, and our community unpack big ideas and share insights in an increasingly complex world.”
The Functioning of Democracy: Insights from Michigan’s local leaders
CLOSUP’s Functioning of Democracy Project is designed to increase our understanding of how American democracy is functioning at the local level, based on the unique perspective of Michigan’s local government leaders. It also serves as a Signature Initiative of the the University of Michigan’s Democracy & Debate program, providing resources, support, and analysis for faculty, students, and others interested in learning more about the state of U.S. democracy at the grassroots level.
Big Ten Collaboration Virtual Policy Simulation: AI Shield for Kids Act
Students from across the Big Ten are invited to participate in this virtual policy simulation, with the opportunity to play the role of a senator working to move a bill out of committee. These events are for anyone who’s curious about how policies are created and want to have a say in shaping the future. Students who complete the policy simulation will receive a digital badge that recognizes their participation and skills developed in this learning experience. Details for Fall 2024 Big Ten Collaboration Policy Simulation coming soon.
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a portrait of Anne Curzan
It feels essential that we as an institution sustain our focus on what it means to be a member of a democratic society, in the U.S. and globally. We are committed to open, informed dialogue about key issues, from free speech to voting access to structural inequalities, as part of our mission to contribute to the common good and create more sustainable and just societies.
- Anne Curzan, Dean, College of Literature, Science, and the Arts