Mountlake Terrace, WA, is no stranger to trying new things to broaden civic participation. As a result of recent initiatives, residents can build their understanding of municipal government through the...
What are “civic opportunities?” They are the chances people have to work together, with other residents and with public servants, to make decisions, solve problems, and build community. They are...
“AI will either be the greatest equalizer ever invented, or the worst source of injustice,” wrote Bill Gates in an open letter a few weeks ago. He’s not the only...
Deliberative processes – including civic assemblies, participatory budgeting, and deliberative forums – have been tried, studied, and refined for well over three decades now. Across that history, a consistent pattern...
The City of Raleigh partnered with Civic Genius at the National Civic League to convene a civic assembly, bringing together a representative group of residents to develop recommendations for the...
If you’ve ever voted by mail, especially if you live in one of the eight states (plus DC) that conducts all-mail elections, then you probably know that for most people it’s a pretty convenient...
In the weeks leading up to July 4th and America’s 250th anniversary, a newly-formed Civic Scholars Council met in Philadelphia to advocate nationally for a new civic culture born of...
We spend enormous energy debating polarization, misinformation, and distrust in government, while ignoring the one democratic institution millions of Americans encounter most directly: the public meeting itself. I was recently...
As we celebrate the country’s 250th anniversary, our All-America Cities are a reminder of the nation’s resilience in the face of adversity. Whether it’s overcoming natural disasters, personal struggles, or...
