Repositioned and Refocused

My Experience at the Advanced Energy Group Challenge

On July 21, 2026, I had the opportunity to speak at the Advanced Energy Group Challenge (AEG) and share my vision for expanding civic engagement in East St. Louis through “Dear Democracy…”. As Policy Lead at United Congregations of Metro East, I discussed how civic education and sustained community participation can help residents recognize the power they have to influence the decisions shaping their neighborhoods.

East St. Louis has experienced decades of disinvestment, environmental injustice, and underrepresentation. During my presentation, I emphasized that one of the most important challenges facing the community is rebuilding civic confidence. When people stop believing their voices matter, participation begins to disappear. Addressing this challenge requires more than encouraging residents to vote on Election Day. It requires creating consistent and accessible opportunities for people to learn, connect, discuss community concerns, develop leadership skills, and participate in local decision-making.

I introduced “Dear Democracy…” as a community-centered initiative designed to make democracy more accessible and approachable. Through facilitated conversations, educational sessions, community partnerships, and leadership opportunities, the initiative helps people move from simply observing democracy to actively participating in it. I also shared my vision for an annual Dear Democracy… Summit that would bring together residents, students, nonprofits, businesses, educators, faith leaders, and local government around the shared goal of building a stronger East St. Louis.

One of the most valuable parts of the AEG Challenge was the engaging and informative conversation that followed. Together, we discussed practical ways to assist with solving the challenges affecting East St. Louis and considered how civic education, collaboration, and community-driven solutions could contribute to the city’s health, prosperity, and resilience. The conversation reinforced the importance of bringing different perspectives to the table and ensuring that residents are included in shaping solutions for their own community.

Overall, I left the experience feeling repositioned and refocused, ready to begin igniting meaningful change. This opportunity reminded me that transformation often begins with one conversation, but it grows through continued learning, strong relationships, collaboration, and action. I am excited to continue developing “Dear Democracy…” and creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, informed, and empowered to help shape the future of East St. Louis.

Every community gets the democracy it participates in. By rebuilding civic confidence and creating new opportunities for engagement, we can strengthen our voices, our communities, and our democracy.