Greater Houston has gained a reputation for being generous. Historically, our region has often topped lists in national studies measuring total philanthropic assets, percentage of income given to charity, and overall financial health of nonprofit charity organizations. Our expansive, rich nonprofit sector enriches our communities and our local economy and is one of the largest …
Category Archives: Civic Engagement
Houston is Engaged
We live in eventful times. The past few years have been replete with once-in-a-lifetime events, including the many impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, historic natural disasters and a variety of galvanizing political issues in between. While reactions to these events run the gamut, their impacts have been widespread in our digitally connected world, contributing to …
Greater Houston Area Sets Record Numbers in 2020 Voter Participation
Early voting for the November 2 election in Texas has begun. The right to vote is an essential cornerstone of the fabric of American democracy. The first article of the U.S. Constitution states that the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives are to be determined by popular vote, however voting in the U.S. is not …
Continue reading “Greater Houston Area Sets Record Numbers in 2020 Voter Participation”
A Look at Electoral Participation in Houston: Past and Present
The year 2020 has been defined by significant change. From the many disruptions and adjustments associated with the COVID-19 pandemic to the renewed and evolving conversations surrounding racial injustice in America, each month has brought with it new reasons to reflect on and adapt to the shifting circumstances we’re all facing. Amidst these many challenges …
Continue reading “A Look at Electoral Participation in Houston: Past and Present”
The Importance of the Census in COVID’s America
Back in October when the world was blissfully ignorant of something called “COVID-19,” Understanding Houston featured a blog on the importance of the 2020 Census from Frances Valdez, Executive Director of Houston in Action. In her blog, Ms. Valdez highlights the importance of counting each individual living in the region and explains the challenges associated …
Continue reading “The Importance of the Census in COVID’s America”
Census 2020: What’s at Stake for the Houston Region
Why those who need the census most may also be those it threatens. As a Latina whose family comes from the western border of Texas with Mexico, I have always felt the tug of two identities. The calling to civic duty runs generations deep in my family, so when the 2010 census questionnaire landed in …
Continue reading “Census 2020: What’s at Stake for the Houston Region”
College student, voting rights activist
Cristina Camarillo: Dreamer — Aspiring Voter Every American citizen remembers their first time voting and the sense of pride that comes with making your voice heard. But for Cristina Camarillo, her first trip to the polls meant speaking for her entire family. As the daughter of two immigrants from Mexico and the younger sister of …