Massive investment in social studies and civics education proposed to address eroding trust in democratic institutions

The political events of 2021 have revealed the dangerous effects of underfunded and inadequate education systems. Education has the power to open minds and protect against falsehoods and misinformation. For the future of progress and our democracy, we must fully fund education and especially invest in social studies and civics education.

The U.S. Capitol on Feb. 26. (Salwan Georges/The Washington Post)

"A direct line can be drawn from today’s civics crises to a long-standing failure to adequately teach American government, history and civic responsibility."

By Joe Heim, The Washington Post | 3/1/2021

It has been a bad 12 months for the practice of civics in America.

The U.S. Capitol attacked by thugs. An alleged plot to kidnap a state governor. Bogus claims of widespread election fraud. Violent protests in the streets. Death threats against public health officials. And a never-ending barrage of anger and misinformation on social media directed at, and by, politicians, leaders, pundits and an increasingly bitter and frustrated populace.

As the battles have raged, trust in institutions — government, media, the law — has plummeted.

So how did we get here? And how do we get out? Read Full Article