#United States #Cambridge #civic education #Condoleezza Rice #iCivics

Civic Learning Week 2025: A Celebration of Civic Education

From March 10 to 14, 2025, Americans from diverse backgrounds will unite to advocate for the significance of civic education during Civic Learning Week. This initiative aims to emphasize the power of informed citizenship and the vital role it plays in strengthening democracy.

The event will feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including Condoleezza Rice, the 66th Secretary of State of the United States, who will be at the helm of the Civic Learning Week National Forum on March 13. The forum is co-hosted by the Center for Revitalizing American Institutions at The Hoover Institution and iCivics, aiming to foster discussions on robust civic education for the 21st century. Other notable guests include John B. King, Chancellor of the State University of New York, and General Jim Mattis, former U.S. Secretary of Defense.

The week promises a wealth of nonpartisan events, extending across the nation, that manifests the commitment educators, students, and community leaders have towards effective civic learning. Building an engaging and pluralistic civic education is the focal point, as leaders discuss innovative strategies for improving overall understanding of democratic principles among citizens.

On March 12, acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns will facilitate a unique fireside chat for educators centered around his upcoming PBS series concerning the American Revolution. This discussion aims to articulate how historical understanding contributes to present-day civic education. Additionally, on March 14, students can look forward to a virtual classroom experience headlined by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, offering a chance for direct engagement with the judiciary’s role in democratic society.

During Civic Learning Week, various governors across the U.S. will officially proclaim the week, highlighting its importance. Accompanying this recognition is the establishment of the Justice Sandra Day O'Connor Prize for Excellence in Civic Education, which will honor exceptional educators committed to promoting civic knowledge impartially in classrooms throughout the nation.

This year, iCivics assumes the role of managing partner for Civic Learning Week, supported by prominent organizations including the Bezos Family Foundation, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and many others. A comprehensive agenda featuring local and national events is available for review, enabling participants to join the movement and celebrating the core values of democracy and civic engagement.

As the dialogue surrounding the importance of civic education grows, the events during Civic Learning Week will undoubtedly serve as a cornerstone for inspiring citizens of all ages to engage thoughtfully in democratic processes. CivicLearningWeek.org provides pathways to registration for all attendees eager to participate.

For media inquiries regarding Civic Learning Week and the forum, contacts should reach out to info@icivics.org. Let us come together to make our voices heard as we celebrate civic education!

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In conclusion, Civic Learning Week 2025 presents a valuable opportunity for Americans nationwide to reaffirm their commitment to learning and participating in civic life. Whether through discussions led by influential figures, engaging community events, or the recognition of exceptional educators, this week embodies the spirit of democracy and the continuous need for an educated populace.