America 250 and CA 175 Dialogues

The Civic Education Center (CEC) prepares the next generation to meet the challenges they face. We empower authentic youth voice through research and civic action to serve our community. We teach students American civic values and the principles of democracy. Students identify issues and work with community partners to help solve problems with civic engagement projects.  

With the reduction of civic education in the past 3 decades, too many students don’t know how our government works and the rights and responsibilities of citizens. They don’t understand self-government and the skills of democratic participation and civic problem solving. With overwhelming social media and concerns about current problems, they don’t know why they should celebrate the founding of our nation.

To prepare students for the 250^th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on 7/4/26 and the 175^th anniversary of California statehood on 9/9/25, CEC will facilitate monthly dialogues with Fresno high school students. They will be recorded and distributed as 20-minute video podcasts. Students will get a civil dialogue training. Teachers will get a comprehensive guide to facilitate class dialogues following the podcast.

The first Dialogue will be in September, focused on California statehood and the rest will relate to the purpose, the past, and the future of America.

Each Dialogue will begin with brief introductions and approval of Agreements:

• Every person deserves respect, including public servants and elected officials.

• Seek common ground and avoid partisan arguments.

• Statements shall be based in truth, with verifiable evidence.

• More agreements may be added by the group, as needed.

There will be 3 categories of questions in each Dialogue;

1. Vision and Values; Why is America 250 (CA 175) important? What ideals and innovations were given to us by the Founders? Examine the meaning of one of our founding documents and civic values, such as the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Great Seal of the U.S., liberty, equal justice under law, democracy, patriotism, and civil rights.

2. What’s next? What is keeping us from making America (CA) a More Perfect Union? What problems need to be solved to make the promise of America (CA) available to everyone? What would you like to see in the next 250 years for America (next 175 years for CA)?

3. Create Your Future; Students will share their hopes and concerns about our community and government. Our questions will guide students to examine the ethical, systemic, economic, and historical perspectives of the issues that concern them. How can students collaborate with community partners to implement creative solutions to problems through civic engagement?

Each of the 3 questions will be framed by a student and/or adult expert, followed by a Circle Discussion for each. A Continuum activity will identify where students stand on the questions.At the Closing Circle; we ask for brief reflections from the Dialogue and discussion of the America 250 Celebration in Fresno County. The Teacher Guide and Dialogue Podcasts will be made available to teachers as a tool for civil dialogue about the American founding documents and civic values, and for discussion of why students should understand and appreciate the national legacy of the past 250 years and consider the options for the next 250 years.

from Governor’s website on CA 175;

As America nears the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence,California is approaching a significant milestone – 175 years of shaping the future.

California, a state of dreamers and doers, has driven profound progress over the last 175 years through its profound resilience, welcoming spirit, and respect for personal freedom.

Throughout history, California has come together to learn from the challenges we’ve faced to create a stronger, more vibrant future. There is still more work to do as we develop a ‘more perfect union’ – but it cannot be denied: the future happens here, first — together.

175 years later, California stands as a global leader in technology, agriculture, arts, entertainment, and innovation.

Frederick Douglas said in 1852, “We are one, our cause is one, we must help each other if we are to succeed.”  The Founders began the Preamble to the Constitution, “We the people, in order to form a more perfect union…” The Great Seal of the United States includes the original national motto, “E Pluribus Unum,” from many into one.

It is inspiring to see students overcome differences to become a beloved community of harmony and respect. Let's make E Pluribus Unum an intentional focus as we guide students in civil dialogue and the planning of civic engagement projects to help solve community problems.

“Let us pledge to restore the American spirit of voluntary service, of cooperation, of citizen action, of private and community initiative, a spirit that flows like a deep and mighty river through the heart of the history of this nation.” (Ronald Reagan) 

Shall we seek common ground in dialogues about American civic values and democratic principles?

Shall we listen to youth voices on the history, current path, and future of our state and nation?

Shall we support youth leadership and civic engagement to create the world they want?

Contact Civic Education CEO Stephen Morris to support this initiative.

stephen@civicedcenter.org  www.civicedcenter.org