We are experiencing a national civics moment like none other in my lifetime. Americans are seeing why our institutions and political systems matter.
Increasing political divisions and distrust have separated Americans from one another, and our young people wonder about their place and purpose in our civic life. Too many are losing confidence in our country — and in democracy itself. We risk losing a generation’s desire to help build “a more perfect union.”
To meet this moment and seize possibilities to protect, preserve, and strengthen our constitutional democracy, I am excited to provide this update about iCivics’ vision and plans.
At iCivics, we know that the best way to strengthen our democracy is to teach it. Building young people’s faith in our democracy starts with teaching them how to participate in it.
That matters now more than ever.
We need civic education that is relevant, meaningful, and engaging for each new generation. Civic education that not only inspires a belief in our nation, but also instills in youth a sense of belonging and a confidence to shape the world around them and work with others to solve problems together.
The New iCivics: Advancing Education, Leading a Movement
As we head toward our nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, iCivics is continuing to expand its vision and mandate by
- innovating civic education;
- informing policy that advances high-quality civic education;
- inspiring engagement in growing the nationwide movement to prioritize civic education; and
- illustrating impact to show the tangible results of our work.
We empower educators and lead the movement to make civic education a nationwide priority so all young people have the confidence to shape the world around them and believe in our country’s future.
Through iCivics Education, we are providing a wide variety of high-quality civic education resources and tools that are nonpartisan, standards-aligned, and inclusive of all learners.
Through our leadership in the civic education field and CivxNow, we are joined by more than 300 organizations working to make civic education a nationwide priority and provide the research, policy, and institutional practices that empower educators, administrators, students, parents, and community members to help all young people build confidence in themselves, each other, and our country’s future.
And we know that building confidence extends beyond the classroom. Students who experience high-quality civic education are more likely to:
- complete college and develop employable skills;
- vote and discuss current issues at home;
- be confident in speaking publicly and communicating with elected representatives about their ideas and priorities; and
- volunteer and work on community issues.
In short, when young people see their role in helping to shape our country, they believe in its future.
Our Moment of Consequence
As our nation prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, our most urgent charge is to ensure the next generation has the confidence and character to engage in our democracy for the next 250 years and beyond.
Now is a moment of great consequence. By joining together, committing to our youth, and transforming civic education for all of us, we will step up to meet it.
Let’s get to work!
