The university will launch its inaugural Democracy Week on Sept. 14-18, timed to coincide with National Voter Registration Day, Sept. 15, and Constitution Day, Sept. 17. Faculty, staff, students and the broader community are invited to participate in a series of events that celebrate civic participation and informed dialogue.
"Democracy works best when we actually show up for each other even when we don't agree. That's what Democracy Week is all about," said Jenna Bednar, faculty director of the Center for Democracy and Civic Empowerment; professor of political science in LSA; and professor of public policy in the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.
"It's a chance to get out of our usual bubbles, hear from people who see things differently, and have some real conversations. Whether you're at the stadium, watching a movie on the Diag, registering to vote, or just joining a discussion, there's a place for you. We want people to leave the week feeling like democracy isn't just an abstract concept; it's something they can be part of."
Led by the Center for Democracy and Civic Empowerment, now a part of the Ford School, the Democracy Week lineup includes lectures, panel discussions, films, workshops and exhibits, with topics ranging from election security to voting rights to the role of arts and culture in interpreting democracy.
The week also supports U-M's Look to Michigan vision by equipping students with the knowledge, skills and experiences to create positive change in their communities.
Events will take place across the Ann Arbor campus and at several community locations, with some programs beginning just before the official start of Democracy Week.
Highlights include:
Sept. 12 "USA@250" Halftime Show. The Michigan Marching Band's halftime performance during the U-M football game versus Oklahoma will include music from multiple periods and traditions, exploring themes of democracy, freedom and shared civic experience.
Sept. 14-17: "Democracy on the Diag" film series. Outdoor movie screenings on the Diag will feature democracy-centered films. The lineup includes "National Treasure" on Sept. 14, "Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith" on Sept. 15, "Selma" on Sept. 16 and "The Words That Built America" on Sept. 17. Popcorn and refreshments will be provided, and attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs.
Sept. 14: "How to Disagree Better?" New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, and Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, a Republican, will join moderator Lynette Clemetson, director of U-M's Wallace House Center for Journalists, for a discussion about how constructive disagreement can strengthen democracy and bridge political divides. The event begins at 5 p.m. in Rackham Auditorium.
Sept. 15 "A Braver Campus Dialogue." Students, faculty, and staff are invited to join a respectful conversation centering on the question "What should U.S. military engagement look like in the Middle East?" Guided by an experienced moderator, participants will navigate the complexities of the issue, share diverse perspectives, and gain deeper understanding of root causes and potential solutions. Food and refreshments will be provided beforehand; the dialogue will begin at 7 p.m. in the Pendleton Room at the Michigan Union.
Sept. 17: "Michigan Elections: Local control, national scrutiny, and public trust." Former Michigan Govs. John Engler and James Blanchard, former U.S. Rep. Michael Bishop and former Lt. Gov. John Cherry will discuss election security. The conversation will examine safeguards in Michigan elections and the role of bipartisan dialogue in strengthening confidence in the electoral process. The event begins at 11:30 a.m. in Annenberg Auditorium at Weill Hall.
Sept. 17: "Party for Democracy." Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to gather from 5-7 p.m. at Regents Plaza for a fair hosted by campus and community partners, featuring voting resources and information on getting involved in local democracy. The event also will include food and giveaways.
Sept. 17: "We Hold These Truths" Penny Stamps Speaker Series with Holly Bass. Bass, the 2026 Roman J. Witt Artist in Residence, will preview her upcoming U-M Museum of Art exhibition, "We Hold These Truths," which opens Oct. 3 and examines how Americans have celebrated, debated and interpreted the nation's founding during the anniversary years of 1876, 1976 and 2026. Bass also will discuss her artistic process and the role art can play in helping communities consider different interpretations of American history. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Michigan Theater.
More information
By Genevieve Monsma, The University Record
