Civic Superglue. Sticking Together for a Stronger Democracy
Why Reimagining Civic Education is the Ultimate Power Move.
Civics is like glue. What kind of glue, you ask? Let’s go with classic Elmer’s glue—white bottle, orange cap. You know, the kind we all used in second grade that squished out around the seams of our construction paper. Everyone who went to elementary school has used this paste to create magical creations. But, if you’re like me, you never really thought about its presence. It’s just there. Because… who has time to think about the glue that holds our lives together when you can grab Scotch tape instead, right?
For nearly 20 years, I've dedicated my career to civic engagement and building community connections. From starting on Capitol Hill to leading corporate philanthropy for an S&P 500 company and running a nonprofit focused on hosting community conversations, I’ve seen firsthand what it means to be civically engaged. Let’s just say… civics is my jam, and by jam, I mean paste.
Rethinking Civic Education
Pay attention, friends. I have an announcement.
We’ve been teaching civics like serving up the blandest, most unappetizing school lunch: scooped mashed potatoes with glistening yellow sauce, gray mystery meat, and a side of undercooked peas. While I’ve always enjoyed those ice cream-scooped mashed potatoes eaten with a prized plastic spork, I realize I’m in the extreme minority here. When most sane kids see this tray slide across the cafetorium table, they say, “That’s a hard pass!” added with a strong, “No thank you and next, please!” Am I right?
As political scientist Robert Putnam pointed out 25 years ago, we've been feeding America civic broccoli—necessary and super gross.
But imagine this instead—what if we offered a lunchroom filled with a variety of delicious and nutritious options, a la Whole Foods style? What if civic education was a well-balanced school lunch, offering a range of appealing choices that cater to the assorted tastes and needs of our increasingly multiracial and growing democracy?
Making Civics Fun and Engaging
Ugh! Civics should be fun, but it’s not. And, yes, this is where I try to convince you that civics is fetch. (Because it is.)
Look, we’ve been feeding America civic broccoli, and now we’ve got generations slinging food at one another, like that epic cafeteria scene from "Animal House." Remember when Bluto, played by John Belushi, sparks a massive food fight? It's total chaos!
Too many Americans lack a solid civics education, leaving us unaware of our own power. Yup, I’m saying this too. And it's true. Just turn on your TV or try having a conversation with your father-in-law. One generation thinks volunteering means becoming a dedicated candy striper. Another has no clue about the brilliance of "Schoolhouse Rock." Yet another thinks raising funds only involves dance marathons with neon glow sticks and a few bake sales.
I’m picking on generations here, and I don't want to belittle the impact of all these modes of civic engagement. But, the truth is, we’re limiting our full potential by placing civics in a restrictive box with only a few options for impact.
Our traditional approach to civics is too rigid and fails to engage. According to a recent Washington Post article, civics education is crucial for democracy's survival. Yet, our current methods are woefully outdated.
When less than half of all adults can name the three branches of government, we have a problem. When only five percent of U.S. adults can name all five rights protected by the First Amendment, we've got a colossal f*ck show.
We need spaces that immerse us in community and break free from the rigidity of traditional, jargon-filled approaches. Instead of dull textbooks, we should adopt a dynamic, Montessori-style approach to civics that lasts a lifetime. This means lifelong hands-on learning, self-directed projects, and collaborative activities that make civics an integral and exhilarating part of our everyday lives.
We need a movement toward civic wellness.
The Importance of Civic Wellness
Civic wellness is a balanced state of well-being achieved through self-care, community engagement, and collective action. It's not just about knowing your civic duties; it's about boldly claiming your power and demanding your place at the table of change. Civic wellness is a completed mosaic of our community spirit.
If civics is the glue that holds our society together, then civic wellness is the super glue that makes those connections unbreakable.
For those who work in this space, we know how crucial it is to have more voices at the table. We strive to build stronger communities, work toward consensus, and foster inclusive dialogue. Yet, this optimistic ideal will remain an uphill battle if individuals cannot see their own agency to support and build a shared vision for their community.
A Call to Action
As mothers, we carry immense responsibilities. Balancing careers, family life, and the "new normal" makes civic engagement seem impossible. These pressures are real. Your exhaustion is palpable. The barriers feel insurmountable. Yet, it’s in this struggle that our strength lies.
Civic wellness isn't a one-time task; it's a lifelong commitment to our collective well-being. Each person's civic journey is unique. Whether through learning, volunteering, or advocacy—every path is valuable. So I invite you to consider this:
Commit to showing up intentionally, making civic engagement a daily practice.
Turn knowledge into action and support each other in this ongoing process.
Recognize that every small effort contributes to a stronger community.
Investing in our civic wellness is like planting seeds in a garden. It's essential for the health of our democracy and the vibrancy of our neighborhoods. Each small step nurtures a more robust, interconnected community.
So, will you join me in this movement?
Will you help me make civics fetch? If so, let’s take these small steps together, watching them grow into something beautiful and impactful. Let’s reclaim our power, redefine our communities, and spark a revolutionary movement that creates a brighter, more inclusive future. Are you ready?
Here we go!
So, slide down my dear friend, and let’s have lunch, continuing to connect over civics one bite at a time.
xoxo-
Sophia
Easy-Peasy Tips to Embrace Civic Wellness Today.
Here are some practical steps you can take to integrate civic wellness into your daily life right now:
Stay informed: Follow your local paper on Instagram to keep up with the latest happenings in your community.
Take care of yourself: Go on a walk to clear your mind and enjoy some fresh air.
Join community activities: Participate in anything you find fun—a book club, a coffee meetup, or an after-school conversation. Just dive into one activity that brings you joy.
Shift your mindset: Civics isn't just about the big flashy actions; it's also about those small everyday choices and commitments that weave the fabric of our communities. Remember - small actions lead to big results.