Sun Sep 15 13:59:50 UTC 2024: ## North Dakota Grandmas Launch Grassroots Movement to Promote Democracy

**BISMARCK, ND** – A group of North Dakota women, dubbed the “BadAss Grandmas for Democracy,” have expanded their efforts beyond establishing a state ethics commission into a larger movement aimed at increasing civic engagement and promoting good governance.

The nonpartisan group, initially formed to advocate for government transparency and accountability, has now shifted its focus to empowering voters, encouraging people to run for office, and supporting ethical candidates across party lines.

“Democracy isn’t a spectator sport,” said Lyn Dockter-Pinnick, who facilitates the group’s monthly virtual meetings. “It has to involve citizen participation.”

The group’s name, coined after a friend remarked on the members’ “badass” spirit, reflects their commitment to action. They believe in getting involved, studying issues, and knowing their candidates.

The group’s membership, open to anyone regardless of location or political affiliation, includes individuals from diverse backgrounds and political beliefs.

“We are networking with a lot of other groups, be they national or local, to maintain momentum,” said Dina Butcher, a founding member who broke from the Republican party in the 2010s over its stance on reproductive rights.

The BadAss Grandmas see their movement as a “rallying cry” for women to engage in politics and run for office.

Their next virtual meeting will be held on Sept. 18 and will feature the Bismarck Documenters, who will discuss ways for everyday citizens to participate in public meetings.

The BadAss Grandmas for Democracy believe that their priorities – citizen engagement, supporting democracy, and working across the aisle – are more important than ever in today’s political climate.

“We must be able to work together,” said Dockter-Pinnick. “We must be able to have civil conversations, not name-calling and disparagement.”

The group’s efforts highlight the increasing importance of grassroots movements in promoting democracy and encouraging active citizenship.

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