Deepa Karthik from NJ Explains 5 Key Civic Engagement Steps for New Voters

1. Deepa Karthik from NJ Explains 5 Key Civic Engagement Steps for New Voters www.deepakarthiknj.com

2. Introduction Deepa Karthik from NJ is a Program Manager and the Executive Director of the HinduVote project, led by HinduPACT. She empowers the American Hindu community through civic education and advocacy, helping people understand their roles as active citizens. Deepa Karthik NJ shares five key steps to guide new voters on how to engage in civic life. These steps will help first-time voters participate confidently and make their voices heard in every election.

3. 1. Learn About the Voting Process Understanding how voting works is the first step toward civic participation. Many new voters feel unsure about where to start, but learning about registration deadlines, polling locations, and different ways to vote can make the process simple. Every state has its own rules, so it’s important to check local election websites for accurate details. Voters should also know about early voting, mail-in ballots, and ID requirements. When people understand how elections work, they feel more confident in taking part.

4. 2. Stay Informed About Candidates Before voting, it’s essential to understand who and what you are voting for. Staying informed helps ensure that each decision made at the ballot box is based on facts, not assumptions. Reading reliable news sources, attending community meetings, and reviewing candidate websites can give voters a clear picture of the policies and values each candidate represents. It’s also important to look into local ballot measures and community issues, not just national ones. Every vote counts, from local school boards to national offices.

5. 3. Participate in Community Discussions Civic engagement goes beyond casting a vote. It also includes being an active member of your community. New voters can attend town hall meetings, join local civic groups, or volunteer for community causes. These activities create opportunities to share ideas, learn from others, and understand different perspectives. Engaging in respectful discussions allows citizens to connect with their neighbors and work together for the common good. By taking part in these conversations, individuals strengthen their sense.

6. 4. Encourage Others to Get Involved One of the strongest ways to support democracy is to inspire others to participate. Many people do not vote simply because they are unaware of the process or think their vote doesn’t matter. Sharing information with friends, family, and coworkers can help change that. New voters can remind others about registration deadlines, provide links to trustworthy election resources, or even organize small discussions about why voting matters. When people see others getting involved, they are more likely to join in.

7. 5. Continue Learning and Taking Action Civic engagement doesn’t end after an election. True participation means continuing to learn about social, economic, and political issues that affect daily life. Attending community events, joining civic workshops, or supporting local initiatives helps citizens stay active and informed. It’s also important to follow up on how elected officials perform after they take office. Writing to representatives, sharing feedback, or joining public discussions are ways to stay engaged beyond the ballot box.

8. Thank You