Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

Truth to Power: Civil Engagement Podcasts

These podcasts are produced by NYC for Youth Inc. in partnership with Manhattan Neighborhood Network.

Hosted by former Assemblywoman Inez Dickens

Honest conversations about democracy, justice, and the power of your voice. Learn how everyday New Yorkers, especially young people, can shape their communities through informed civic action.

Civic engagement is how people turn opinions into outcomes. When residents vote, show up at public meetings, and organize with their neighbors, they shape the policies that touch daily life, from housing to schools to public safety.

Watch The Latest Espiodes

Meet Your Host: Inez Dickens

Inez Dickens, former New York State Assemblywoman and host of Truth to Power.

Former New York State Assemblywoman and Harlem community leader

Inez Dickens is a lifelong New Yorker who has spent decades in public service in Harlem. She began her political career in 1974 as a State Party Committeewoman, a role she held for 32 years. She was elected to the New York City Council in 2006, representing Central Harlem and parts of the Upper West Side, and to the State Assembly in 2017. She became Deputy Majority Whip in 2023 and retired in 2024. Her work has focused on housing reform, education advocacy, and community empowerment.

"Democracy isn't a spectator sport. Every voice counts, and I'm here to show you how to make yours heard."

Why Participation Matters

Informed citizens.

Democracy depends on people who vote, join public discussion, and get involved in their communities.

Stronger communities.

Higher civic engagement builds closer social bonds and more responsive public services.

Local impact.

Volunteering, organizing, and advocacy directly shape neighborhood quality of life and policy decisions.

Watch the Series

New episodes are posted on the NYC For Youth YouTube channel. Subscribe so you don't miss one.

Rank Choice Voting

Meet the Panelists

Joining Inez Dickens in Rank Choice Voting Episode 1 and 2

Nicole Yearwood:

Founder and CEO,Educated Voter.

https://www.educatedvoter.net/

Pharein Griffith:

Civic Engagement Chair, New York Branch NAACP

Episode 1 & 2: Demystifying Ranked-Choice Voting

How Ranked-Choice Voting (RCV) works in NYC local elections.
Why ranking multiple candidates protects your vote.
Common pitfalls and voter strategies.

Key Take Aways

Understand your voting rights.

Know when, where, and how you can participate in elections.

Participate beyond Election Day

Attend community meetings, engage with elected officials, and advocate for issues that matter to you.

Become an informed voter

Research candidates, their qualifications, and their positions on issues.

Understand the ballot

Learn how Ranked Choice Voting works and how to avoid ballot exhaustion.

Recognize the importance of local government

City and state officials make decisions that directly affect your community.

The Judicial Process

Meet the Panelists

Joining Inez Dickens in this conversation:

Hon. Elizabeth Shamahs

Judge, New York County Civil Court (sitting in Criminal Court).

Mariama James

District Leader, Lower Manhattan community leader.

Hon. Christopher Chin

Judge, Supreme Court, New York County (Motor Vehicle Part).

Path to Becoming a Civil Court Judge

Application and Screening Process

District Leader Engagement, Endorsements, and Petition

Path to Becoming a New York State Supreme Court Justice

Eligibility and Judicial Screening

Judicial Convention and Delegates

Supreme Court candidates are nominated through a judicial district convention rather than a conventional public primary election.

Which Judges are Appointed or Elected

Judicial appointments are divided among the Governor, the Mayor of New York City, and Judicial Administrative Officials. Civil Court, Supreme Court and Surrogate’s Court are elected

Key Takeaway

Becoming a judge involves more than legal experience. Candidates must demonstrate professional qualifications, judicial temperament, community commitment, and an understanding of the political and electoral processes that shape judicial selection in New York.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this broadcast, video, or publication is intended solely for general educational, civic, and informational purposes. It does not constitute formal legal, political, or professional advice.

Viewing or listening to this content does not create an attorney-client or advisory relationship between the audience and the creators, hosts, or guests. The views and opinions expressed during this presentation are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or endorsements of any judicial body, court system, government agency, or affiliated organization.

Laws, judicial processes, and court rules vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. For guidance regarding specific legal matters or ongoing court proceedings, please consult a qualified legal professional licensed in your jurisdiction.

Join In: Shape the Future of NYC

Speak Up

Share your perspective at public forums, participate in events

Volunteer

Donate your time to community causes

Connect

Build relationships with neighbors

These podcast on civil engagement are for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are those of the hosts and guests and are not intended as professional advice (legal, political, or otherwise). Please conduct your own research before taking any action based on the content discussed.

Page updated

Report abuse