Upcoming Civic Engagement Events in South Dakota: Join the Conversation!

South Dakota News Watch and Partners Launch Civic Engagement Series

Pierre, SD – In a bid to bolster civic engagement and enhance media literacy, South Dakota News Watch, in collaboration with South Dakota Public Broadcasting (SDPB), the League of Women Voters of South Dakota, and the Chiesman Center for Democracy at the University of South Dakota, is set to kick off a series of televised and in-person events starting September 18.

The initiative aims to educate South Dakotans about the political process, upcoming ballots, and how to discern credible media sources. “What this is, is understanding government,” said Cara Hetland, director of radio and journalism content for SDPB. “Hearing directly from elected officials helps the public grasp how government functions and the role of media in that process.”

The first event, a live televised town hall from the Capitol rotunda in Pierre, will focus on the separation of powers and feature key figures including Governor Larry Rhoden, Lieutenant Governor Tony Venhuizen, and justices from the South Dakota Supreme Court. This event is designed to foster dialogue about the system of checks and balances that underpin state governance.

Julia Hellwege, director of the Chiesman Center and associate professor of political science at USD, emphasized the importance of civic engagement. “The more engaged and informed we are, the more opportunities we have to participate in decision-making,” she stated. “If we’re concerned about the issues affecting us, the best course of action is to get involved.”

The series will also include discussions on the state of democracy, the impact of polarization, and the changing landscape of civics and media. Members of the League of Women Voters will be present at most events to assist attendees with voter registration and answer questions about the political process.

Amy Scott-Stoltz, president of the League of Women Voters of South Dakota, highlighted the critical role of nonpartisan media in a healthy democracy. “Our partnership aims to spark conversations about the importance of a free press and its influence on civic life,” she said.

Upcoming events include:

• September 18: “Separation of Powers Town Hall,” 8-9:30 p.m. Central time, Capitol rotunda, Pierre.
• September 24: Overview of democracy and public perceptions, 6-7 p.m. Central time, USD’s Al Neuharth Media Center, Vermillion.
• September 30: Presentation on civics and media, 5-6:15 p.m. Mountain time, The Hive, Rapid City.
• October 10: Training on the state court system, 9-11 a.m. Central time, SDPB locations in Sioux Falls and Rapid City.
• November 3: Discussion on South Dakota’s initiated measure and voter referendum processes, 6-7 p.m. Central time, Vermillion.

The series is part of a broader effort to promote civic education and engagement, with additional events planned for the future. As South Dakota prepares for upcoming elections, these initiatives aim to empower citizens with the knowledge and tools necessary to actively participate in democracy.

For more information and to stay updated on future events, visit South Dakota News Watch or contact Carson Walker at carson.walker@sdnewswatch.org.