In his Iowa Caucus Victory Speech on January 3, 2008, former President Barack Obama said, “In the face of impossible odds, people who love this country can change it.” If you believe this, then change is always possible and only happens through action. That is what Civic Learning Week is all about. Helping be a part of the change you want to see by learning about civics and becoming civically engaged.
Civic Learning Week (CLW), hosted annually by iCivics, highlights the critical role civic education plays in strengthening constitutional democracy in the United States. By emphasizing the civic knowledge and skills necessary for informed participation, CLW strives to create a national movement to prioritize civic education across communities and schools.
Civics is the study of the rights and responsibilities of citizens. Civic education goes beyond understanding how government works, it focuses on the role individuals play in a self governing society. Learning about topics such as how a bill becomes law, the three branches of government, and the presidential election process helps citizens better understand their power and responsibilities within democracy.
Civic Learning Week is grounded in the belief that every person deserves access to engaging and meaningful civic learning opportunities. Civic education should be a national priority to help strengthen the foundation of an informed and engaged populace.
I am sure many people remember the I am Just a Bill Schoolhouse Rock music video. Beyond this fun video there are many sources to rely on to get information about how to be an engaged citizen:
- Civic Learning Week Library Booklist
- For young people in Marin County join Student Elections Ambassador Program (SEAP) to get involved at a local level
- Marin County Elections Office
- Branches of the U.S. Government - Explore and learn about the branches of government and beyond at usa.gov
- Learn how to become a U.S. President - Learn about caucuses and primaries, political conventions, the general election, and the Electoral College
- Citizenship services at the library
- Marin League of Women Voters - A nonpartisan, activist organization that encourages informed and active participation in government. Learn more about their efforts in voter education and advocacy
Do your part and vote!
- Register to vote - If you haven't yet registered, take a moment to do so. Registrations forms are also available at your local library
- Preregister to vote - Are you 16 or 17 years old? You can preregister now and be ready to vote when you turn 18.
- Check your registration status - Confirm that your voter registration details are up to date.
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