Why Civics Matters in Everyday Life

What Is Civics?

Civics is the study of the rights and responsibilities of citizens and the workings of government. At its core, civics teaches us how society functions, how laws are made, and how citizens can actively participate in shaping their communities. It encompasses everything from voting and volunteering to understanding the Constitution and local ordinances.

The Importance of Civics Education

Learning about civics is more than memorizing facts about historical documents or government institutions. It’s about cultivating informed, engaged citizens who are equipped to contribute to the greater good. Civics education helps people understand their role in democracy, recognize the value of participation, and appreciate the impact of their actions on society.

When I attended high school, Civics was a required subject, as was American Government, History, and Americanism VS Communism. I paid attention in class. I was a straight A student who graduated with honors. I admired and appreciated my teachers. I retained what I learned. When in doubt, I research to refresh my memory. More often than not these days, I find myself questioning whether those who also took these classes paid attention, skipped classes, have forgotten what they learned, or simply don’t care about the importance of understanding how our government works – or how it’s supposed to work.

Civics in Action: Everyday Examples

• Voting: Participating in local, state, and national elections is a fundamental civic duty. It allows individuals to have a voice in decisions that affect their lives. This truly is the number one way to ensure that YOUR voice is heard because, simply put, EVERY vote matters!
• Community Involvement: Volunteering, attending town hall meetings, or joining neighborhood groups are all ways to engage in civic life.
• Respecting Laws and Institutions: Understanding and respecting laws ensures a safe and orderly society, while knowledge of institutions helps citizens navigate government services. It’s safe to say that I have the upper hand in this department because I chose law enforcement as my career and have worked in the criminal and judicial branches of our government. Which is why I get highly offended when lawyers and judges are accused of making their rulings based on partisanship simply because their rulings didn’t favor the outcome that was expected. I know factually this isn’t true, and I will continue to speak out and call out anyone who says otherwise.
• Advocacy: Raising awareness about important issues or participating in peaceful protests are powerful ways to influence change. As a matter of fact, I’ll be attending a NO KINGS protest on the 18^th of October in New Albany, Indiana. THIS is Civics at work!

Why Civics Matters Today

In a rapidly changing world, civics provides the tools to navigate complex issues like social justice, climate change, and digital privacy. It encourages critical thinking, empathy, and responsibility. By understanding civics, individuals become more than just observers—they become active contributors to their communities and the nation.

How to Get Involved

Getting involved in civics doesn’t require a degree or special training. Start by staying informed. Read and watch the news from multiple outlets. If you tether yourself to only one specific news source, you can’t possibly know the whole truth. It’s important to hear what every side is saying and what issues are being discussed. Keep abreast of world events. Ask questions, no matter how irrelevant you think they might be. This is how we acquire the answers we’re looking for. Learn about local issues. Register to vote and participate in elections. Volunteer your time, attend community events, and connect with your representatives. Every action, big or small, makes a difference.

Conclusion

Civics is the foundation of a healthy democracy and a vibrant community. It empowers individuals to make informed choices, advocate for positive change, and build a society that works for everyone. By embracing civic engagement, we all play a part in shaping the future. Trust me, I know how difficult it can be to stand up and speak out. I’ve lost friends, been cussed out and called horrible names because my beliefs didn’t align with theirs, or because we viewed certain situations through different lenses, but I continue to move forward and I will continue to speak up and out. I’ve never been known as “the quiet one.” I will always stand up for what I believe in…even if that means standing alone. And even if it means that my views, beliefs, and differences offend others. We ALL need to stand against criminalities and injustices to our fellow men and women who are human beings just like us, and we’ve never needed to be more united than we do right now.

GNP