Doane University Champions American Democracy Week with Focus on Media Literacy and Critical Thinking
CRETE, NE – Doane University recently concluded its annual American Democracy Week (ADW), a week-long series of events designed to promote civic engagement, critical thinking, and media literacy among students and the wider community. Organized by Professor Amanda Irions, Professor Tim Hill, and Sara Hinds, the week featured a diverse range of activities, from documentary screenings and expert panels to interactive workshops and a spirited trivia competition. The overarching theme of the week was the importance of navigating the complex information landscape of the 21st century, particularly in the face of misinformation and propaganda.
ADW kicked off with a screening of the documentary “Trust Me,” which explores the crucial need for media literacy in the digital age. The film resonated with attendees, including sophomore Connie Jarm, who recalled a specific case study from the documentary highlighting the dangers of vaccine misinformation. This initial event set the stage for a week of insightful discussions and critical analysis of the challenges facing democracy today.
Tuesday’s “What’s Happening in Washington?” Q&A session provided a forum for students to engage directly with experts on pressing political issues. Professor Hill, along with Irions, Hinds, and alumnus Travis Handler, tackled questions ranging from voter fraud and DEI initiatives to vaccine policy and constitutional law. Hill underscored the crucial role of states as “laboratories of democracy” and highlighted the evolving nature of the digital political landscape, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance and critical thinking in evaluating information online.
Throughout the week, Professors Hill and Irions extended their engagement with the student body by visiting classrooms to discuss the importance of democracy, critical thinking, and combating misinformation, particularly during times of uncertainty. Irions emphasized the significant role of interpersonal relationships in shaping our beliefs and influencing our communication. Professor Hill underscored the dangers of eroding trust in institutions, stating, “If we stop being able to trust the people in power, then suddenly we’re completely on our own,” highlighting the vulnerability individuals face when navigating the complexities of information dissemination.
Wednesday’s Art & Design showcase provided a creative platform for students to express their perspectives on contemporary issues. Students from Drawing and Graphic Design Three classes presented thought-provoking works that tackled topics such as caffeine addiction, the societal hierarchy of sports, the pervasive influence of TikTok, and the often-unseen dedication of art majors. Senior Ella Zubieni’s piece, featuring Taylor Swift against a backdrop of global turmoil, sparked discussion about the ethics of wealth and the potential for public figures to distract from critical societal issues. Zubieni’s piece aimed to highlight the disparity between public image and underlying actions. Another group of students presented a historical overview of propaganda through graphic design, showcasing examples from the American Civil War, World War I, World War II, and the modern era. This exhibit served as a powerful reminder of how artists can intentionally or unintentionally influence public perception through their work.
The week continued with a vital propaganda workshop led by Civic Nebraska on Thursday. This interactive session focused on the insidious impact of misinformation and the manipulative tactics often employed on social media platforms. Participants were encouraged to approach civic issues from an unbiased perspective and to develop critical thinking skills to discern credible information from misleading narratives. The workshop provided practical tools and strategies for navigating the online information ecosystem and engaging in constructive dialogue on important societal issues.
American Democracy Week culminated on Saturday with a collaborative event featuring Dine:09. The Lakeside venue was abuzz with activity as teams competed in a democracy-themed trivia contest. The questions covered a wide range of topics, from conspiracy theories and misinformation to campaign ads, current events, political cartoons, and famous political gaffes. The lively competition, accompanied by the enticing aroma of freshly baked pies and popcorn, provided a fun and engaging way to wrap up a week of serious discussions and critical reflection. The winning team, aptly named “American Pie,” took home a sweet prize, while all participants enjoyed the festive atmosphere and the remaining delicious pie.
Through this diverse array of activities, Doane University’s American Democracy Week provided a valuable platform for students and the community to engage with critical issues facing democracy today. The week underscored the importance of media literacy, critical thinking, and constructive dialogue in navigating the complex information landscape of the 21st century and fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry. By equipping individuals with the tools to discern truth from falsehood and engage in thoughtful discussions on important societal issues, Doane University is contributing to the strengthening of democratic values and the promotion of a more just and equitable society.