Empowering Youth Voices: Phi Mu Delta's Commitment to Civic Engagement and Civil DiscoursE

In an era of increasing political polarization, the role of young voters and their ability to engage in constructive dialogue has never been more crucial. Phi Mu Delta, rooted in our founding principles of Democracy, Service, and Brotherhood, recognizes the vital importance of empowering youth to participate actively in our democratic processes.

Recent research from CIRCLE (Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement) highlights both the potential and the challenges we face. While youth voter turnout has seen historic increases in recent elections, many young people still feel disconnected from the political process. Only 19% of youth report hearing from political campaigns or parties, and just 35% feel supported in acting on their political concerns.

As a fraternity committed to cultivating lifelong civic engagement, Phi Mu Delta is taking action. We've developed a series of resources designed to foster political awareness, encourage voter participation, and promote civil discourse among our members and the broader Greek community. These guides address critical topics such as navigating political differences, maintaining non-partisan chapter activities while supporting individual expression, and managing political anxiety.

Our goal is not to promote any particular political ideology, but rather to equip our members with the tools they need to become informed, engaged citizens capable of respectful dialogue across differences. We believe that by nurturing these skills within our chapters, we're contributing to a stronger, more resilient democracy.

We invite fraternity and sorority professionals across the nation to utilize and adapt these resources as they see fit. The challenges we face transcend individual organizations, and we're stronger when we work together to promote civic engagement and civil discourse among all Greek life members.

By investing in these initiatives, we're not just fulfilling our mission as a fraternity; we're helping to shape a generation of leaders ready to tackle the complex challenges of our time with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to democratic values.

Together, let's empower the voices of young Americans and strengthen the foundations of our democracy, one chapter at a time.

Discussion Guides

Navigating Political Differences in Your Chapter
"Navigating Political Differences in Your Chapter" is a discussion guide designed to help fraternity and sorority members address political tensions within their chapters. This guide provides a framework for facilitating respectful conversations about diverse political views while maintaining chapter unity and upholding shared fraternal/sorority values.

The discussion aims to increase understanding between members with different political perspectives, develop strategies for constructive dialogue, and reinforce the importance of brotherhood/sisterhood beyond political divides. With carefully crafted questions and ground rules for civil discourse, this guide encourages members to explore how their chapter can create an inclusive environment that respects political diversity while fostering civic engagement.

Drawing on research from CIRCLE about youth political engagement, the guide helps chapters navigate the complexities of political discussions in today's polarized climate. It's an essential tool for Greek organizations seeking to build stronger, more inclusive communities that can thrive despite political differences.
Non-Partisan Chapter, Politically Active Members: Finding the Balance
"Non-Partisan Chapter, Politically Active Members: Finding the Balance" is a discussion guide designed to help fraternity and sorority chapters navigate the complex terrain of maintaining organizational non-partisanship while supporting individual members' political engagement.

This guide facilitates a thoughtful exploration of how Chapters can foster civic participation and address important social issues without endorsing specific political parties or ideologies. Through structured questions and civil discourse guidelines, chapter members are encouraged to consider strategies for creating an inclusive environment that respects diverse political views while upholding the chapter's non-partisan stance.

Drawing on CIRCLE research about youth political engagement, the discussion prompts members to think critically about how their chapter can encourage political awareness and action in a balanced, non-partisan manner. This guide is a tool for Chapters seeking to empower their members as engaged citizens while preserving the integrity and unity of their chapter.

Ideal for chapter leaders, members, and advisors, this discussion guide provides a framework for tackling a timely and often challenging aspect of Greek life in today's politically charged climate.
Addressing the Political Troll: Preserving Harmony in Your Chapter
"Address the Political Troll: Preserving Harmony in Your Chapter" is a program designed to address a common yet challenging issue in fraternity and sorority life: the member who takes political discourse to disruptive extremes. This resource provides chapters with effective strategies to maintain a respectful, inclusive environment while still preserving freedom of expression and healthy political engagement.
Supporting Members Through Political Anxiety
"Supporting Members Through Political Anxiety" is a comprehensive conversation designed to address the growing concern of political stress and anxiety among fraternity and sorority members. In today's politically charged climate, many young adults experience heightened levels of anxiety related to political issues and events. This program provides chapters with the tools and strategies to create a supportive environment where members can navigate these challenges while maintaining strong brotherhood/sisterhood bonds.

Drawing on research from CIRCLE, which shows that nearly half of young people report struggling with mental health issues, this program offers practical guidance for recognizing signs of political anxiety, facilitating open discussions, and implementing support systems within Greek organizations. It includes a detailed discussion guide, tips for creating safe spaces for political dialogue, and strategies for promoting mental well-being alongside civic engagement.