Amidst the turmoil of 2022, communities across the country made strides in advancing democracy and equity. Dozens of communities have approved equity plans, removed symbols honoring oppressive leaders, adopted police reform measures and installed new offices to promote civic engagement and equity. On top of this, cities and counties held elections that promoted higher turnout and protected the integrity of the electoral process. It was a productive year for the League as well, and you can read about some of our accomplishments here. We look forward to working with you on the challenges and opportunities that await in 2023.

Happy New Year!

Advancing Democracy: Ranked-Choice Voting

Urban Libraries Council’s Declaration of Democracy

Enhancing Racial Equity

in California

One of many ways to improve democratic practices is ranked-choice voting, principally because it’s more thorough in capturing voter preferences. Beyond electing candidates that appeal to a broader cross-section, another benefit of RCV, can be less negative campaigning. Alaska and New York are both examples of how RCV can moderate outcomes.

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As cornerstones of democracy, public libraries must commit to preserving, protecting and advancing the highest ideals of democracy so all members of our communities may fully participate. To prioritize and elevate this commitment, the ULC recently unveiled the Declaration of Democracy — inviting libraries and supporting organizations to sign on and pledge their commitment. Read more.

California cities are making good on their collective promise to improve equity. It’s been a little over a year since League of California Cities (CalCities) released its Equity Roadmap, which provides suggestions for improving racial equity in the areas of workshops, discussions and training, along with resources in each area. Now, several local efforts to improve equity are making progress. Read more.

Georgia Smart Communities Challenge

Jaylen Smith Becomes Youngest Black Mayor

All-America City

Deadline Approaching

Technology has added a significant degree of convenience to our lives, and municipalities are taking advantage of advances in technology by transforming into “smart cities.” The Georgia Smart Communities Challenge was created to foster the spread of the smart city concept.

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Jaylen Smith graduated high school in May of 2022, later this month he will step into his new job as Mayor of Earle, Arkansas. Smith is the youngest ever Black mayor of a U.S. city. During his campaign, Smith identified his key priorities as public safety and economic revitalization.

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Applications for the 2023 All-America City Award are due February 15th! This year's award will recognize ten communities that are working to improve the health and well-being of young people, with particular attention to efforts that engage young people in this work. Learn more, access resources, and apply here!