Civic Engagement Seminar

Concept
When you hear the term "government," do you think of gigantic, sprawling, inefficient bureaucracies, or do you think of administrative structures that ensure essential services are provided and that protect the rights of our country's citizens? Some people view "government" as an umbrella term for all political activity. Others, however, look at government(s) as specific structures designed to maintain order and fairness. There are many opinions about what makes government "good" or "bad." This debate started with the framers of our Constitution and continues to this day.

This module is an opportunity for you to explore what government means to you as individuals and as a citizen of a democratic society. It is also intended to give you a better understanding of the people and structures that comprise Mississippi's and the nation's formal government.

Pre-flective Activity
Part A: In your journal, make a list of national government officials that includes the President, Vice-president, Attorney General, Speaker of the House, Majority Leader, a Supreme Court Judge, and Secretary of State. Feel free to use outside sources, but try to fill out as much as you can without doing research. When you get stumped, here is a useful web site: http://www.firstgov.gov/

Part B: In your journal, make a list of Mississippi government officials that includes the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, state senators, and at least two house representatives. You may want to check out these web sites: http://www.mississippi.gov/

http://www.ls.state.ms.us/

Part C: Interview at least one public official (school board member, county supervisor, state representative, state senator, etc.) in your community to find out their views on how decisions are made. Some sample questions are provided below (be sure to create your own, too!). Keep your interview notes in your journal.

Sample Interview Questions:
1. What prompted you to seek the position you now hold?
2. As a public official, what do you see as your primary role or function?
3. How are policies, laws, or regulations created by your agency (what is the process)?
4. What is the best way for a citizen or community member to participate in and influence public policy, regulations, or law?
5. How would you define the term "government"?
6. What responsibilities do you have to your constituency?
7. What responsibilities does your constituency have to you (or your position)?

Readings

• Youthful Discretion. (Allison Swindell)

• American National Government: An Overview
  

Optional Readings

• http://thomas.loc.gov/
• http://www.crf-usa.org/
• http://www.vote-smart.org

Reflective Activity
In your journal, make a list of anything that comes to your mind when you hear the word "government". Remember, this is a brainstorming exercise. There is no right or wrong answer or idea. You need simply to write down your thoughts.

Do not read any further until you have brainstormed!

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After you have completed the brainstorm activity, review what you have written. Are your thoughts about government generally positive, negative or neutral? Reflect upon your observations. What is the source of your perceptions? Do you think your perceptions are typical?

After completing this module, please proceed to Module 5: Community.