In an era where everything and everyone seems deeply polarized, how does a field maintain its sense of positivity, integrity, and viewpoint diversity? That was the high bar we set for this year’s Civic Learning Week, and we are proud to say the field rose to and far exceeded it. There were many ways we emerged successfully that can be instructive for our path ahead:
- We showed rather than told. Our field is viewpoint diverse and believes in the power of institutions and civic learning. During Civic Learning Week we didn’t just say that, we showed it. Organizations across and outside the political spectrum highlighted this commitment to young people, pluralism, and the importance of universal access to civic learning.
- We saw and appreciated educators. As a field, we believe that educators play an indispensable role as stewards and protectors of our constitutional democracy. Educators played a core role in the success of the week, leading activities in all 50 states. During Civic Learning Week our partners continued to thank our educators—from classroom teachers and Girl Scout troop leaders to museum educators and the many others on the frontlines instructing young people.
- We elevated student voices and agency, locally. So many educators engaged young people to solve authentic problems and affect actual decisions locally in their schools and communities. Ultimately, that is the powerful impact of civic learning: It connects people with a sense of place and empowers them to make that place better.
Where do we go from here? We double down on these lessons, find ways to act and build. We cannot rest on our laurels. Let’s take a moment to catch our breath, and then let’s get back on the field because civic learning isn’t just a week, it’s an ongoing movement.
