Parent Tips : Citizenship
By Julie Stevens
Well before rioters stormed the U . S . Capitol we understood that confidence in our democratic systems was under siege . Accusations from Donald Trump of elections “ rigged ” by his opposition began in 2012 and continued through his candidacy and presidency . Vote recounts continue months after congressional certification of election results , testament to a refusal to accept — and desire to potentially disenfranchise — those who chose new leadership . As COVID-19 exposed the inequities of the U . S . public health infrastructure , thousands of protestors marched in response to the murder of George Floyd , questioning the legitimacy of institutions that failed to protect their most basic right to life and the due process that should undergird liberty . Images proliferated of the relatively few who destroyed property , a jarring indicator that despite our aspirations , the social contract that should unite us is tattered . Despite hope of bipartisanship , starkly different models for the pursuit of happiness remain entrenched . Regardless , parents can consciously foster the knowledge and skills essential for productive civic engagement , for the sake of all children and our country ’ s future .
Given the cumulative effect of the state of our union , parents should be addressing kids ’ safety and security concerns . While each family ’ s approach will be determined by its unique identity , all adults can begin by remembering to listen carefully , especially to small voices , reinforcing that all deserve to be heard . Revisit the values that inform how you interact with each other and with fellow citizens . Prioritize respect and compassion . Turn off sensationalized news coverage — stressful for kids and adults ! Reflect together on ways to help everyone in your community feel more safe and secure .
No space is apolitical — difficult political conversations are not only unavoidable , but vital . Parents can teach and model choosing language that avoids accusing , emphasizing perspective-taking and its close cousin , empathy . Counter the effect of politicallycharged media by relying on facts rather than fear or stereotyping . Practice civility , which Cassandra Dahnke of the Institute for Civility in Government defines as claiming and caring for one ’ s identity , needs , and beliefs without degrading someone else ’ s in the process . Help kids understand the power of using opening phrases like , “ I believe ” or “ Have you thought about ” instead of “ Anybody who ” or “ Nobody should .”
Seek out age-appropriate books to explore our shared history , system of government , and current events . The Founding Fathers : Those Horse-Ridin ’, Fiddle-Playin ’, Book-Readin ’, Gun- Totin ’ Gentlemen Who Started America by Jonah Winter features lively illustrations that make it accessible to young children while appealing to all ages . I ’ m Not Dying with You Tonight by Kimberly Jones and Gilly Segal , rated by Common Sense Media for age 14 +, is a dramatic fictional account of two girls — one Black , one White — whose racial biases are exposed and
Page 32 Summer 2021 CSEE Connections