On July 9, the Archuleta League of Women Voters (LWV) chapter will screen the award-winning documentary “Join or Die!” at the Liberty Theater.
The doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with screening at 6 p.m. followed by a “Joining Fair” featuring local nonprofits.
Tickets are $25, with proceeds benefiting local nonprofits and the League’s community events. Visit www.pagosamovies.com to reserve your tickets today
“We are pleased to offer this fun and entertaining movie as part of Pagosa’s big 250/150/1 celebration,” said event coordinator Sarah Riehm. “Not only is it the birthday of our country and state, but also the first anniversary of our newly re-formed LWV organization.”
The movie has earned a coveted 95percent approval rating on the Rotten Tomatoes movie platform. The film explains how civic engagement in clubs and organizations is not only vital to a healthy democracy, but also for mental and physical well-being.
“Join or Die!” is based on extensive research done by the charming, erudite social scholar Robert Putnam. His best-seller, “Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community” brought him international recognition, and he has been a key advisor to both Republican and Democratic administrations on the subject of “social capital.”
The title of his book refers to the fact that, although the number of people bowling in the United States has increased, participation in leagues has dropped dramatically.
There has been a precipitous drop in participation in every type of social organization, leading to an epidemic of loneliness, isolation, and retreat into political and social silos. His research clearly shows how this trend has negatively affected our politics on the local and national level.
The Archuleta Chapter of the LWV is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to facilitating community dialogue, increasing voter education and promoting a well-informed electorate. To join the mailing list for meeting notifications, email Ginger Baxt at vpbaxt@gmail.com. To become a member, visit www.lwvcolorado.org and find the “JOIN” button. Be sure to select the Archuleta County chapter.
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