The current state of American government at times reminds us of an old joke: “Is the problem ignorance or apathy? I don’t know and I don’t care.”
That seems to be the position of far too many citizens as our democracy atrophies. A lack of knowledge is one sign; persistently low voter turnout is another.
But as we fear for the future of a democracy that has sustained this nation for nearly 250 years and has helped create the most powerful country in the world, we find hope in the efforts of local teachers. As detailed in an article from Columbian reporter Katie Gillespie, numerous programs throughout Southwest Washington are designed to engage students and help them to understand the machinations of our political system.
Explains Jerry Price, social studies program supervisor for the state Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: “We don’t want sheep. We want people who can actively engage and be meaningful members of the community.”
That dovetails with research about how best to inform students and get them interested in civics lessons. Diana Hess of the University of Wisconsin, co-author of “The Political Classroom,” said: “I think the more informed people are, the more likely they are to participate. It’s hard to get excited about something you don’t understand.”
Notably, Hess’ research with co-author Paula McAvoy from North Carolina State University found that students who actively participate in political discussions demonstrate increased interest in listening to those with whom they disagree.
All of this is essential to preserving American democracy, particularly during polarized times. And it is reflective of statewide efforts that have received legislative support.
In 2018, Gov. Jay Inslee signed a bill championed by Rep. Monica Stonier, D-Vancouver, to boost civics education in public schools. The legislation allocated $234,000 for expanded civics education, including $80,000 toward professional development for teachers.
Meanwhile, other programs have been used to help citizens understand American government. The state’s public-affairs network has promoted a “Teach with TVW” project, providing hands-on education; the Council of Public Legal Education has launched a Civic Learning Initiative to provide access to civics instruction; and the office of Secretary of State Kim Wyman promotes a “Legacy Washington” program to boost knowledge of the state’s history. Plus, we should mention that newspapers provide daily insight into how our government works.
The need for such education is clear. The latest national survey from the Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania, conducted last year, found that 39 percent of American adults could identify all three branches of government. It also found that one in five adults could not identify any of the branches. The U.S. Constitution outlines the framework for the legislative, executive and judicial branches, along with the checks and balances that allow them to interact effectively.
The fact that relatively few adults can recite such basic knowledge should sound an alarm for all Americans. Ignorance — or maybe it is apathy — among citizens opens the door for the undermining of our system from the outside and from within.
Reversing this disturbing trend calls for the engagement of students. Southwest Washington is fortunate to have many dedicated teachers preparing future generations of citizens.
