The University of Idaho has taken a leadership role in providing educational opportunities in music, art, architecture, creative writing and theater. According to a survey, 17% of those who said Idaho was going in the wrong direction were more likely to take part in a protest (compared to 11% of the total sample). Participating in politics through protests, communication with public officials, or donations for political campaigns is an essential part of local politics in Idaho and the United States, allowing citizens to express their opinion in various public formats. In Idaho, protests have been held in traditional public places such as the state capitol, but also outside the homes of public officials, hospitals and county health agencies.
The state has collaborated with renowned artists like Vardis Fisher, Ezra Pound and Carol Ryrie Brink. Unfortunately, the dialogue between citizens and public officials often becomes one-sided, with citizens expressing their beliefs (often anger) against public officials. In addition to the University of Idaho, Idaho State University (1901, in Pocatello), Boise State University (193), the College of Idaho (1891, in Caldwell) and Northwest Nazarene College (1913, in Nampa) offer advanced degrees. Indian mission schools were supplemented with classes for white students when settlements began in the 1860s.
Women gained the right to vote in 1896, making Idaho one of the first states to extend suffrage to women citizens. The Idaho Shakespeare Festival presents classic and popular works at an outdoor amphitheater by the river in Boise every summer. Other summer theaters are located at the University of Idaho, Idaho State University, Coeur d'Alene and Lewiston. Citizens can contact public officials who are not affiliated with their party of choice, but research shows that citizens are more likely to contact officials with whom they share a partisan identity.
On the other hand, because self-described Democrats have limited political representation in Idaho, they may be more motivated to participate in protest politics. To get involved in local government and politics in Boise, Idaho, citizens should take advantage of their right to vote and contact their elected representatives. They can also attend protests or donate money for political campaigns. Additionally, they can support local artists and attend summer theaters to stay informed about current events.
