Civics in Action

Location: 137 AMU

In an era when national politics often dominate headlines and public attention, many folks feel powerless, cynical, or disconnected from the political process.We'll explore how meaningful engagement at the city, county, and state levels can help restore faith in democracy and empower individuals to make tangible change in their communities. Drawing on real-world examples, we'll discuss the unique impact of local governance and offer practical ways to get involved. By shifting focus from the gridlock of Washington to the opportunities in our own backyards, we can rebuild trust, foster collaboration, and reignite civic participation from the ground up.  

Ben Rangel is the Managing Editor and Co-Founder of Bridge the City, a civic engagement platform dedicated to connecting people, resources, and ideas to inspire action in Milwaukee. He teaches AP U.S. Government and Politics at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School Milwaukee. A recognized voice in civic engagement, he served on Governor Tony Evers' People's Maps Commission in 2019-20 and has been a presenter at major events like SXSW (South by Southwest) and the Ignatian Family Teach-in for Justice. Through his work with Bridge the City, he has interviewed numerous elected officials. Ben holds a BA in Political Science from UW-Madison and an MA in International Affairs from Marquette University, where he was also a Trinity Fellow.