Why and How to Engage with Politics
By: Cassandra Smith, Women’s Fund Intern
“Wow, that’s intense. I just can’t keep up with politics anymore!”
I often hear this after telling someone that I’m majoring in political science and public policy. And the sentiment is completely understandable. With studies showing a growing polarization in the American political sphere and policies becoming intertwined with human rights, it can be emotionally draining and almost impossible to read the news every day. Headlines have become increasingly alarming, and with the everyday worries of life, it seems overwhelming to add politics to the list. However, it is incredibly vital that everyone—especially women—pay attention to policies and the changing political world around us.
For women, there is often more at stake.
Politics impacts almost every aspect of daily life. From road construction to the amount taken out of our paychecks, each detail is the result of long discussions, research, and activism by politicians and advocates. By ignoring policy updates, these systems are taken for granted, leaving people unprepared when seemingly sudden changes occur.
As national financial bills affecting programs such as Medicare and federal student loans increase, it is vital to stay informed and prepare financially for changes. Additionally, social policy can quickly change protections for vulnerable groups. Though advocacy may seem to fall on deaf ears, that is not always the case. Recent protests over data center construction have led to $130 billion in delayed or canceled projects1, and the National Conference of State Legislatures reports that 15 states are considering policies to ban data centers.2 With election season approaching, policymakers are listening to constituents, and informed advocacy can make a substantial difference.
For women seeking representation in government, the stakes are even higher. In 2025, Indiana public media reported that only 27% of Indiana’s state legislature is female, ranking 39th in the nation.3 This means that many decisions made at the state level are primarily made by men. Politics is still largely a man’s game, which can discourage women from running for office or even speaking about politics. Women make up 50.9% of the American population and deserve equal representation in the legislature and in the effects of the laws passed.
For legislation to reflect the needs of women and young girls, policymakers must hear the female perspective from their constituents and feel pressure from voters. Additionally, staying informed on potential candidates and supporting female politicians, or those who advocate for women and families, is especially important as we near election season.
It is understandable to feel overwhelmed with the amount of information out there, but there are a few ways to make feeling informed more manageable. You must accept that you cannot be an expert on every single bill, on every single level. Decide on issues important to you, whether that’s economics, healthcare, or social justice, and focus on those headlines and advocacy. Find advocacy groups that align with these views and check their websites and social media to quickly find related articles and information.
Similarly, follow politicians whose views align with yours or who are involved in a committee or bill you are passionate about. Finally, ease into talking about politics. People are understandably hesitant to discuss politics because of fears of conflict, but that is how harmful bills are passed unnoticed. For women, one of our most powerful tools is connection. When we don’t share our thoughts or anxieties about politics, it can begin to feel overwhelming, making it harder to stay informed.
Start by sending a friend an article you find interesting, opening the door to conversation. Find a local group—or start your own—where women are encouraged to discuss hard topics and find strength to advocate for what they need. Never diminish your knowledge of the world. Trust your instincts on what you believe is right. A more informed world is a better world, and that starts with one person, one article, or one conversation.