Greater Support in Powering Civic Education, Empowering the People, Strengthening Democracy
Chairperson and Commission Members:
In my prior presentation, I introduced what I fondly call the “Freedom and Democracy Supremacy Call.” On November 3, 2026, we saw the electrifying power of money plus purpose to move mountains. Surpassing money, candidates, and political victories is a greater message: The people are activating the power of their voice, participation, and vote. It therefore brings a question for every legislator in this Commonwealth: What is Virginia going to look like in 2027 and 2028 when a greater informed, energized, and civically engaged people begin demanding the full promise of democracy and prosperity? I thank Ms. Hill for acknowledging the importance of greater engagement. Indeed, to whom much is given, much is required. However, civic engagement cannot be the exclusive responsibility of politicians, nor measured only by election victories, which is a drop in the ocean. My ask is for legislators to actively support innovative and creative civic projects and initiatives.
Our responsibility must be greater. We must intentionally cultivate civic understanding beginning with our middle school students and continuing through high school, college, and adulthood. Infrastructure must provide sustained civic education, intentional guidance, and meaningful opportunities for participation, as an informed citizen is an empowered citizen, and an empowered citizen cannot easily be manipulated, dismissed, or silenced. On November 3, Americans demonstrated freedom and democracy strength. Leadership must stand. The people are watching, as every community is held to a higher standard. Ultimately, actions, not words, must become the defining measure of public service. Therefore, I make a direct appeal: Legislators must expeditiously make greater investment in and strengthen the Virginia Commission on Civic Education. Support its capacity, expand its reach, and empower it to bring civic education into every community. I also invite your creative partnership in our civic documentary initiative, Dreamers: Energized Women, Energized Men, as a vehicle for civic education, awareness, and engagement. I extend an invitation to join us at the Government Center.
Remember Shirley Chisholm's enduring lesson: every citizen possesses one Vote. That vote is currency: That vote is power. As the 120th Congress and the 2027–2028 political landscape take shape, we must ensure that the playing field tilts in favor of an informed and participating people. We are also witnessing the possibility of Black and White communities joining hands to break the chains of unaffordability and build prosperity for all. So, I challenge you with this question: What is Virginia going to look like when civic education reaches every generation, every neighborhood, and every community as people prepare for the next election? Especially as it is known, democracy does not sustain itself. It must be taught, practiced, defended, and renewed by every generation.
The people have demonstrated their power. What is the match of the legislators’ commitment?
Submitted by Juliette Adams
Renaissance Group of Richmond
Greater Support in Powering Civic Education, Empowering the People, Strengthening Democracy Chairperson and Commission Members: In my prior presentation, I introduced what I fondly call the “Freedom and Democracy Supremacy Call.” On November 3, 2026, we saw the electrifying power of money plus purpose to move mountains. Surpassing money, candidates, and political victories is a greater message: The people are activating the power of their voice, participation, and vote. It therefore brings a question for every legislator in this Commonwealth: What is Virginia going to look like in 2027 and 2028 when a greater informed, energized, and civically engaged people begin demanding the full promise of democracy and prosperity? I thank Ms. Hill for acknowledging the importance of greater engagement. Indeed, to whom much is given, much is required. However, civic engagement cannot be the exclusive responsibility of politicians, nor measured only by election victories, which is a drop in the ocean. My ask is for legislators to actively support innovative and creative civic projects and initiatives. Our responsibility must be greater. We must intentionally cultivate civic understanding beginning with our middle school students and continuing through high school, college, and adulthood. Infrastructure must provide sustained civic education, intentional guidance, and meaningful opportunities for participation, as an informed citizen is an empowered citizen, and an empowered citizen cannot easily be manipulated, dismissed, or silenced. On November 3, Americans demonstrated freedom and democracy strength. Leadership must stand. The people are watching, as every community is held to a higher standard. Ultimately, actions, not words, must become the defining measure of public service. Therefore, I make a direct appeal: Legislators must expeditiously make greater investment in and strengthen the Virginia Commission on Civic Education. Support its capacity, expand its reach, and empower it to bring civic education into every community. I also invite your creative partnership in our civic documentary initiative, Dreamers: Energized Women, Energized Men, as a vehicle for civic education, awareness, and engagement. I extend an invitation to join us at the Government Center. Remember Shirley Chisholm's enduring lesson: every citizen possesses one Vote. That vote is currency: That vote is power. As the 120th Congress and the 2027–2028 political landscape take shape, we must ensure that the playing field tilts in favor of an informed and participating people. We are also witnessing the possibility of Black and White communities joining hands to break the chains of unaffordability and build prosperity for all. So, I challenge you with this question: What is Virginia going to look like when civic education reaches every generation, every neighborhood, and every community as people prepare for the next election? Especially as it is known, democracy does not sustain itself. It must be taught, practiced, defended, and renewed by every generation. The people have demonstrated their power. What is the match of the legislators’ commitment? Submitted by Juliette Adams Renaissance Group of Richmond