Show of Hands
After super low turnout in the 2010 midterm elections, my friends and I organized a project called Show of Hands, uniting the three largest organizations for youngish people in Greensboro. We built what we thought would be the best possible way to engage young people in local elections: We threw a party. We rolled in food trucks, opened the bar, curated a slate of musical artists, and invited local candidates to meet their prospective constituents. Participants registered to vote, and got a little more aware of items on the ballot, all at a free, open political party. We did this for three or four years, evolving it each year.
Show of Hands 2012
This was our sophomore attempt at Show of Hands. After a successful first year in 2011, we got some great buy-in from the City and other local funders. We went bigger, and louder, attracting more than 800 attendees, including local candidates, all looking for a chance to connect more intentionally to the civic process. Notable acts: Grammy award-winning 9th Wonder and Rhapsody
Show of Hands 2011
Following the poor voter turnout of 2010, we had to do something. This was our maiden voyage. It was a struggle to get permits, sponsors, and local buy-in. But we brought it all together in the heart of downtown Greensboro, setting the stage for years to come with Show of Hands.
Show of Hands 2014
In 2014, we partnered with a refugee resettlement agency to produce an internationally-focused event. Musical acts hailed from Malaysia to the Congo, and refugee food and craft vendors shared their culture with participants. The intention was to raise awareness of Greensboro as an international city, and engage the international public in the civic process. Our local NPR affiliate produced this promotional spot leading up to the event.
