Fostering Civic Literacy – an overlooked pathway to achieving health and racial equity

by Alka Mansukhani , Lisa Goren and  Renata Schiavo

Civic-minded adults begin as engaged students: Many of us may remember studying civics in school, but in fact, in recent years, it has been eliminated from many school curricula throughout the United States. Yet, a basic understanding of how governmental processes work, as well as the rights and obligations of citizenship and governing bodies, from the local to the global level, is essential to make sure that citizens are enabled to contribute to their community (1). Civic literacy is the very bedrock of engagement, and an engaged adult begins with the child.

Sadly, many students are not provided with an opportunity to learn about how their government works and may feel powerless about their ability to make an impact. Some may feel cynical and disconnected from public institutions and from centers of power. Educating students about local government, and modeling how to engage with those in authority would give them access and agency—both in local matters and in decisions affecting their lives. Most importantly, it would provide them with the skills they need to assess the impact of policies throughout their lives.

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