Democracy is about more than getting to the polls. It’s about engaging at every level of decision-making, from county and school board decisions to policy at the state and national levels. CURE’s Rural Democracy Project empowers Minnesotans who care about natural landscapes and their rural communities to engage deeply and lead on the issues that matter most to them.
Defend Rural People
Voter Resources
Rural Elected Officials
Elected officials influence almost every part of our lives, from our roads and schools to our energy systems, social safety nets, and even the hours of our local parks. At CURE, we help rural residents navigate decision-making structures and talk to their elected officials about the issues that matter most.
We also encourage new candidates from all backgrounds to run for office and contribute to important conversations about our futures. New voices make a difference regardless of election outcomes.
Voter Resources
Free and fair elections are fundamental to our democracy. Elections ensure that decision makers reflect our diverse needs and values, and they hold representatives accountable. At CURE, we are committed to ensuring that everyone can participate and make informed decisions. We encourage active participation from voters and candidates by providing voter resources, conducting outreach, and emphasizing the relevance of rural perspectives in policymaking. If we want our voices and needs to be heard and addressed, we must engage in and protect the democratic process.
Candidate Education
Rural Minnesota needs hard-working people from all walks of life to step up and run for office. When new candidates bring their own life experiences and fresh ideas, they help make sure our communities are better represented—regardless of election outcomes. Increased political choice helps make everyone feel heard. At CURE, we support people who haven’t always had a seat at the table. We encourage folks from underrepresented groups to run for office at all levels in rural Minnesota. We provide public, nonpartisan tools and resources to help new candidates succeed. Your story and your connection to your community matter—and they can make a real difference.
Sharing Rural Voices
No matter where someone lives, they want a fair shot—to build a life and pursue meaningful work, love and worship how they want, pursue happiness, feel safe, and trust the institutions that serve them. Sharing the voices of people who live in rural places helps show the very real challenges and opportunities. At CURE, we are helping to tell these stories, growing understanding across the state to build power together. Hear these stories. Share your story.
