#11 Civics

  Civics derives from the Latin word civics, meaning "relating to a citizen". Civics relates to the behavior affecting other citizens. This leads me to specifically talk about civic education. Civic education is the study of the theoretical, political, and practical aspects of citizenship. This can pertain to specific rights and duties. Civic education is important because it builds students’ knowledge and understanding on ways citizens actively participate within the government. Civic education empowers us to be active citizens, well-informed about what’s going on in the government, and gives us the opportunity to change the world around us. Additionally, it is a vital part of any democracy and equips ordinary people with knowledge about our Constitution.

 

  

 As Americans we are all taught about voting and the government starting in middle school. We can't all be happy with the way the world is going. Many people complain but do not do anything to change it. As a citizen ,18 or older you have the right to vote in the United States. There have been widespread controversies stating that "citizens under 18 should be able to vote as well". I could definitely agree with this statement! Does being under 18 mean your incapable of having the same intelligence, knowledge, and responsibilities as an 18-year-old? Lowering the voting age is a new concept for many Americans. Young people have the right to be heard and to have their interest in voting taken seriously. By disfranchising young people it’s sort of sending the message that young people do not have anything of value to add to the political conversations in our society. Its more common for a younger person to tune in with modern internet privacy and social media use, but that is irrelevant because younger citizens are underrepresented in politics. Why are we being taught about civic education at a young age just to not even have the right to be politically engaged.

   In other countries they agree that " young people make good voters". In 2013, when Takoma Park, Maryland, lowered its voting age to 16, registered voters under 18 had a turnout rate four times higher than older voters. Overall, we are taught civic education at a young age just to not even be heard until years later. Legislation to lower the voting age has had a large amount of support. Whenever the United States decides to end discrimination I'm sure voting will take a turn for the better!