Copyright © 2008 by Emily Arnold McCully
The NCBLA believes that literacy is essential to the development of responsible citizens in a democracy.
Thomas Jefferson wrote in 1820: “I know no safe depository of the ultimate powers of the society but the people themselves; and if we think them not enlightened enough to exercise their control with a wholesome discretion, the remedy is not to take it from them, but to inform their discretion by education. This is the true corrective of abuses of constitutional power.”
The more education Americans have, the more likely they are to be active citizens and vote in national and local elections. Building on the links between literacy, historical literacy, and civic engagement, here we share information that will help young people become thoughtful, engaged citizens. We also include articles and website links pertinent to presidential elections.
We encourage you and the young people in your life to seek legitimate news sources. Read newspapers, newsmagazines, and books in both traditional and electronic formats, moving beyond television sound bites and blog blurbs, seeking a variety of perspectives. As citizens, young and old, we need to make thoughtful decisions about national issues, national leadership, and our future; we can only do so if we are responsibly informed.
Links for National Political Parties
I Pledge Allegiance: Classroom Kit On Becoming an American Citizen
by Helen Kampion
Who Gets to Vote?
by Geri Zabela Eddins
Getting the Votes and Getting Elected: The Popular Vote vs. The Electoral College
by Geri Zabela Eddins
Help Wanted: President of the United States
by Geri Zabela Eddins
Persuading the People: Campaigning for President
by Geri Zabela Eddins
From Buttons to Pins – Campaign Tokens Evolve
by Geri Zabela Eddins
Choosing Sides: The Rise of Party Politics
by Geri Zabela Eddins
Star-Spangled Presidents
by Helen Kampion
The Resolute Desk: A Gift of Peace
by Mary Rattray
Presidential Debates: Watch the Debates with Your Kids and Teens!
by Mary Brigid Barrett
The Our White House Kid's Inauguration Celebration Kit!
by Geri Zabela Eddins and Mary Brigid Barrett
Great Presidential Inauguration Websites
compiled by Mary Brigid Barrett