In a year dominated by the excitement and intensity of a presidential election, it’s easy to overlook the critical impact of local politics. However, for us Lowellians, being civically engaged at the local level is more important than ever.

While national elections shape the broader landscape, the decisions made by city officials directly influence the daily lives of Lowell’s citizens. Being a civically engaged resident in Lowell means actively participating in the community to foster a vibrant, informed, and proactive city.

Civic engagement is more than just voting; it involves staying informed about local issues, watching and attending city council meetings, volunteering, and collaborating with neighbors to address community needs.

Here are some ways we can all be active participants in our community:

Staying Informed: Understanding the issues that affect Lowell is the first step towards effective civic engagement. Residents should read and watch our local media outlets (InsideLowell, Lowell Sun, 980 WCAP and LTC – to name a few), follow the City and city officials, and stay active on community social media pages (in an informed and productive way, of course). Being well-informed ensures that when the time comes to make decisions or voice opinions, residents can do so knowledgeably.

Watching and Attending City Council Meetings: City council meetings are crucial for understanding how decisions are made and for voicing concerns or support for various initiatives. These meetings are open to the public and provide a platform for residents to see local government in action. Watching these meetings can help residents stay updated on important issues and contribute to the decision-making process.

Volunteering: Volunteering is a tangible way to give back to the community. Lowell’s vibrant network of nonprofit partners offers numerous opportunities to volunteer, whether it’s a food or clothing drive, donating to a fundraiser, community clean-up events, or helping out at city events. Volunteering not only helps those in need but also fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility among residents.

Joining Local Boards and Commissions: Lowell has various boards and commissions that residents can join. These groups often focus on specific areas such as zoning, public safety, or environmental issues. By serving on a board or commission, residents can directly influence policies and initiatives that affect the community. (Click here for opportunities currently available.)

Participating in Public Forums, Discussions and Neighborhood Groups: Public forums and neighborhood groups provide a space for residents to express their opinions and hear from others. These events can be organized by the city, local organizations, or community groups. They are excellent opportunities for dialogue and for residents to work together to find solutions to common problems. It’s also a great way to meet your neighbors and forge bonds within your neighborhood. 

Voting: While voting is not the only form of civic engagement, it is one of the most powerful tools we have as residents of Lowell. Local elections often have a more direct impact on daily life than national elections. By voting, we help shape the leadership and policies that govern Lowell.

Get Involved in a Local Campaign: Supporting local candidates in Lowell is a vital aspect of being a civically engaged resident. These candidates (city council, school committee, state representatives and senators) directly shape the policies and initiatives that impact our community daily. By getting involved in local campaigns—whether through volunteering, canvassing, or simply spreading the word—you help ensure that the voices and concerns of Lowell’s residents are represented. In Lowell, the power of local politics is profound, and supporting local candidates is a tangible way to make a meaningful difference in our city’s future.

Supporting Local Businesses: Supporting local businesses is another form of civic engagement. By shopping locally, residents help boost the local economy and contribute to the overall well-being of the city. This support can also extend to attending local events and participating in community initiatives.

Civic engagement is essential for the growth and well-being of Lowell. A civically engaged population ensures that Lowell remains a vibrant, responsive, and thriving city for all its residents.