Civics
Matters

This is your role in our government

Civics is defined as the study of the rights, duties, and responsibilities of citizens. However, it is not just another subject in school.

It is not just constrained to your US History class for a couple of weeks. It is the very fabric that holds our society together. It is about understanding what exactly it means to be a citizen, and how to best participate in the democratic process that shapes our communities, our nation, and ultimately, our world.

Why Does Civics Matter?

On a personal level, understanding civics empowers you. It gives you the tools to navigate the complexities of the legal system, to know your rights when interacting with police officers, and to make informed decisions about your future, whether that’s voting in elections, serving on a jury, or even running for office yourself one day. Civics is also more than just about individual empowerment. It is about participating collectively in our democracy, where the government is by the people and for the people. It cannot function without an informed and engaged citizenry. When we understand how our government works, we can hold it accountable, and advocate for policies that you really care about. Your voice matters just as anybody else’s. No matter how old or young, you can make your voice heard on the most important issues facing our nation. We hope this website was helpful in enabling you to make your voice heard and to be a better citizen and a better American.

Sample Congressional Lettter

Below are a sample letter that you can use in letting your elected representatives hear your voice on the issues that matter to you and the contact details to your local, state, and federal representatives. By contacting them, you contribute to the survival of our democracy and become a better citizen as well.

Find Your Representative Here

Download Sample Letter

Do you know your rights?

1. What is the name of the document that outlines the rights of American citizens?

a. The Declaration of Independence
b. The Bill of Rights
c. The Gettysburg Address
d. The Pledge of Allegiance

2. Which of the following is a right protected by the First Amendment?

a. The right to vote
b. The right to free speech
c. The right to drive a car
d. The right to own a pet

3. Which amendment guarantees the right to a fair trial?

a. The Fourth Amendment
b. The Sixth Amendment
c. The Eighth Amendment
d. The Tenth Amendment

4. What does the Fourth Amendment protect against?

a. Cruel and unusual punishment
b. Unreasonable search and seizures
c. Self-incrimination
d. Double Jeopardy

5. Which amendment abolished slavery?

a. The Thirteenth Amendment
b. The Fourteenth Amendment
c. The Fifteenth Amendment
d. The Sixteenth Amendment

6. What does the Constitution do?

a. Sets up the government
b. Declares war
c. Prints money
d. None of the Above

7. Which amendment guarantees the right to vote regardless of race or color?

a. The Fifteenth Amendment
b. The Nineteenth Amendment
c. The Twenty-Third Amendment
d. The Twenty-Sixth Amendment

8. What does the ninth amendment do?

a. Protects against cruel and unusual punishments
b. Guarantees the right to bear arms
c. Ensures that rights no specifically mentioned are still protected
d. Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures

9. Which amendment guarantees the right to a trial by jury in civil cases?

a. The Fifth Amendment
b. The Sixth Amendment
c. The Seventh Amendment
d. The Eighth Amendment

10. What does the Eighth Amendment prohibit?

a. Excessive bail and fines
b. Unreasonable searches and seizures
c. Self-incrimination
d. Double Jeopardy

CivicsMatters