By Brandon Fey, Contributing Writer
On Friday, Sept. 22, the Eisenhower Institute (EI) concluded its Democracy Week celebration with the “Democratize America” event on Stine Lake held from 4-6 p.m. This was a casual event that was aimed to bring students from across the political spectrum to celebrate democracy and engage in meaningful conversion.
EI student employee Adhara Ayndrila ’27 explained, “This [event] is supposed to bring all the students on the campus around for a fun gathering in addition to the informational seminars earlier in the week.”
Attendees enjoyed fresh popcorn and cotton candy as they spoke to one another about what democracy means to them. Students were encouraged to answer this question in chalk on the nearby pavement, creating a collage of patriotic expression. Among the statements were “Equity and Equality,” “Freedom of Speech” and a large American flag.
“What does democracy mean to you?” Students were encouraged to answer this question in chalk in front of Stine Lake. (Photo Brandon Fey/The Gettysburgian)
Charles Henry ’26, an attendee of all five Democracy Week events, shared his thoughts on the celebration: “I think Democracy Week has been a really great way to get the students out engaging with issues… this has a lot to do with teaching us what kind of impact we can have in our community, see what others have done before, and see how we can replicate or improve on what they have done.”
The event was staffed by student employees at the Eisenhower Institute. Among them was Jackson Boyle ’24, who offered his stance on the event
“It’s about showing that there’s a lot of different ways that you can practice democracy,” Boyle said.
EI’s Senior Administrative Services Assistant Ann Wofford shared, “I’m really really proud of Gettysburg College for taking this week to show its spirit in celebrating our Constitution.”
Executive Director Tracie Potts concurred.
“I love that we ended the week on a fun note,” Potts said. “There was a lot of energy from our students in getting involved and showing their interest.”
This first annual Democracy Week was a success for the Eisenhower Institute, and they look forward to continuing this new tradition for years to come.
Students join in the festivities on Stine Lake. (Photo Brandon Fey/The Gettysburgian)
