AT THE CIVIC CIRCLE, we combine two powerful forces in the lives of youth: democracy and the arts. Starting this Monday, May 12, we are launching a campaign that will invite you to stand up for democracy by supporting our work, and by sharing your commitment to the civic principles at the heart of our program. The arts and democracy are inextricably intertwined. The freedoms we enjoy in our democratic society give artists the space to…
Interfaith Works visits Civic Circle students in Wheaton DEMOCRACY, HISTORY AND THE ARTS may be in retreat at the federal level, but in Civic Circle workshops they are going strong. At Arcola Elementary School and the Pembridge Square Apartments, students are doing service-learning activities centered on food and its role in our community. They’ve created community cookbooks to celebrate their cultures of heritage, and shared environmental messages about food waste through mini-magazines called “Zines.” They have also explored food…
WHEN THE NATION’S FOUNDERS rejected tyranny to form a new kind of government ruled by the people, they saw public education as essential to democracy’s survival. Thomas Jefferson specifically warned of the “tyranny” that could follow if “the people at large” were not educated at the common expense. As we celebrate Civic Learning Week through March 14, the original purpose of public education in America—to prepare citizens for self-governance—could not be more relevant. The Civic Circle kicked off…
IT’S TIME TO RESERVE YOUR TICKETS for The Civic Circle’s first Youth Democracy Fest on Saturday, March 1 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. This event is free, but seating capacity is limited, so please reserve HERE today. (We do not want anyone to be disappointed and turned away!) We’ll hear inspiring civic songs and poems by students in our community, and enjoy uplifting performances by Downwire, poet Malachi Byrd, and singers Lilo Gonzalez, Uasuf Gueye, and Munit Mesfin. Don’t miss this family-friendly gathering to celebrate democracy and youth voices! Join us…