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National Youth Civics Summit 2026: A Platform for Tomorrow's Leaders

The Military Order of the World Wars (MOWW) is set to host the 2026 National Youth Civics Summit (NYCS) from July 12 to 18 in Washington, D.C. This event will welcome 20 remarkable high school students from various states including Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Texas, and Virginia. The summit is entering its third year, continuing its mission to provide young individuals with essential civic education and leadership training.

Embracing Civic Responsibility

The National Youth Civics Summit is designed for students who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to civic engagement. All participants have previously attended MOWW Youth Leadership Conferences (YLC) or Youth Leadership Seminars (YLS), programs that aim to build a strong foundation for the next generation of leaders. After a competitive selection process, these 20 students have earned their spot to engage in a deep dive into the workings of American democracy.

Over the week-long event, attendees will gain extensive insights into their roles as citizens. They will participate in a series of educational sessions and hands-on experiences that underscore the importance of civic engagement and leadership in today’s society.

Exploring the Foundations of Democracy

Throughout the National Youth Civics Summit, participants will explore the three branches of government: legislative, executive, and judicial. Activities include:

• - U.S. Capitol Tour: A guided visit to the heart of American democracy, allowing participants to witness Congress in action and visit the House and Senate galleries.
• - Meetings with Congressional Members: Engaging discussions with lawmakers and their staff to explore the legislative process and the significance of each citizen's voice in it.
• - U.S. Department of State Visit: Interactions with Foreign Service Officers that shed light on international relations and diplomacy.
• - Exploration of the White House: Insight into executive operations through a unique experience with the White House Historical Association.
• - Trip to Philadelphia: Immersive learning at the National Constitution Center and the Museum of the American Revolution, both critical in understanding the nation's historical context.
• - Supreme Court Tour: Learning about the judicial system and the importance of the rule of law from Deputy Marshal Paul Golden.
• - Visits to National Landmarks: A comprehensive tour of significant sites, including Arlington National Cemetery, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Jefferson Memorial.
• - Pentagon Briefing: An overview of defense strategies and military operations from the Department of Defense.

Commitment to Accessible Education

Thanks to the generosity of MOWW's donors and supporters, students can attend the National Youth Civics Summit at no financial burden. This initiative underscores MOWW’s commitment to promoting patriotism and civic responsibility among youth.

Founded in 1919, the Military Order of the World Wars is a nonpartisan veteran service organization focused on fostering civic responsibility and leadership within communities across the nation. Through its extensive network, MOWW acknowledges youth achievements and provides platforms for further learning.

A Call for Media Participation

Members of the media are encouraged to cover various moments throughout the National Youth Civics Summit. Opportunities for interviews with students and program leaders will be available upon request. This is an excellent chance to showcase the importance of civic education and the extraordinary efforts made to empower young citizens.

To learn more about the National Youth Civics Summit and the initiatives driven by MOWW, visit their website at www.moww.org.

The 2026 National Youth Civics Summit promises to be not just an educational experience but a significant step towards building a future filled with engaged leaders who are ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow.