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The Sandra Day O'Connor Institute for American Democracy is regularly providing resources, information, and programs related to civics education, civic engagement, and civil discourse. Find the latest news and information here.

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Press Releases

In the News

Blog Posts

Publications

Newsroom

Press Releases

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A person in a suit holds out their hand with a digitally drawn graduation cap floating above their palm, evoking the spirit of Carnegie and symbolizing education or achievement.

Institute Receives $500,000 Carnegie Corporation Grant To Expand Youth Civic Education

A person wearing a graduation cap with a tassel stands facing a golden sunset. The silhouette creates a warm, inspiring scene, symbolizing new beginnings and achievements.

Scholarship Opportunities for Arizona High School Seniors

The U.S. Capitol building at sunset, with its dome illuminated, reflected in a calm pool in the foreground, surrounded by green trees and a statue in front.

O’Connor Institute Expands National Presence

In the News

Judicial Motion

Source: Phoenix Home + Garden

Date: February 1, 2026

Civics education would make for better citizens. Why don’t we have it?

Source: Seattle Times

Date: November 3, 2025

Civics Education Struggles, Even as Government and Politics Saturate Daily Life

Source: New York Times

Date: October 7, 2025

Featured Blog Posts

A woman wearing a cowboy hat and checkered shirt rides a brown horse outdoors on a sunny day, ready to build her path through the open land. Coiled rope hangs by her side, with blue sky and distant hills in the background.

The Cowgirl Who Became a Justice

We Build Bridges for Those Who Come After

A woman with short, wavy gray hair wears a long-sleeved blouse with a necktie and a wide belt, facing the camera with a neutral expression. The simple, gradient background evokes the professional setting of Youth Programs.

In Her Lifetime, Everything Changed

Publications

View all publications

A snowy park with tall, leafless trees at sunrise. Text overlay reads: "The Citizen. February 2026 Edition." Start your morning with The Citizen in hand.

The Citizen – February 2026

A stack of books with an open book on top, a yellow cup of colored pencils, a small plant, and reading glasses sit in front of a chalkboard featuring "The Citizen, October 2025 Edition.

The Citizen – October 2025

A hand holds a small American flag against a blurred outdoor background. Text overlays read: "The Citizen Summer 2025 Edition," with stars on either side of "Citizen," celebrating community spirit.

The Citizen – Summer Edition 2025

Press Releases

Press Releases

A person in a suit holds out their hand with a digitally drawn graduation cap floating above their palm, evoking the spirit of Carnegie and symbolizing education or achievement.

Institute Receives $500,000 Carnegie Corporation Grant To Expand Youth Civic Education

A person wearing a graduation cap with a tassel stands facing a golden sunset. The silhouette creates a warm, inspiring scene, symbolizing new beginnings and achievements.

Scholarship Opportunities for Arizona High School Seniors

The U.S. Capitol building at sunset, with its dome illuminated, reflected in a calm pool in the foreground, surrounded by green trees and a statue in front.

O’Connor Institute Expands National Presence

Civics for Life Community App Launches On Sandra Day O’Connor Day

A glass National Preservation Award trophy is displayed in front of a mid-century modern, triangular-roofed building, celebrating historic preservation amid lush greenery and a bright blue sky.

National Trust for Historic Preservation Bestows Prestigious Award To O’Connor House

A modern, empty conference room with a large, U-shaped wooden table surrounded by black chairs. The room has bright overhead lighting, white walls, and a dark accent wall at the far end.

O’Connor Institute Welcomes New Members to Board of Directors

A blue backpack on a classroom desk with a chalkboard in the background. Text reads: "Policy Brief September 2025: Why are teachers uncomfortable teaching civics? Sandra Day O'Connor Institute for American Democracy.

New Report Reveals Why Civics Teachers Are Uncomfortable Teaching Civics

Illustration of George Washington on horseback crossing a river, with the text “I didn’t cross the Delaware so you could skip civics.” A stamp reads “O’Connor Institute Ambassadors—Join Now!”.

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute High School Civics Program Honors America 250

A person with glasses and light brown hair, wearing a gray blazer and blue shirt, stands with arms crossed in front of a wall covered in colorful autumn ivy leaves.

Fostering the Future Civic Leaders of Our Country

Illustration of a camera on a tripod with a vintage portrait on the screen. Colorful swirls in the background. Text reads "Bravo! 2025 Winners." A badge with "Civics Challenge Est. 2020" is at the bottom right.

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute announces winners of 6th Annual Civics Challenge

Blue promotional graphic for a summer intensive workshop titled "Deep Dive into the History of the U.S. Constitution," happening June 22-27, 2025. Hosted by Sandra Day O'Connor Institute, National Constitution Center, and OAH. "Apply Today" button.

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute, National Constitution Center, and Organization of American Historians Team Up to Host Constitutional Educator Intensive

Empty classroom with chairs on desks, featuring a text block titled "Policy Brief September 2024" and the question "When and why did America stop teaching civics?" at the Sandra Day O'Connor Institute for American Democracy.

Schools Teach Less Civics When Civics Becomes Controversial, Sandra Day O’Connor Institute Reports

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute Spotlights Civic Education Through Youth Programs

A person casts a vote into a ballot box against a backdrop of the American flag. Text reads: "Sandra Day O’Connor Institute, National Association of Secretaries of State Discuss Preparation for November Election". Logos of both organizations are displayed.

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute, National Association of Secretaries of State Discuss Preparation for November Election

A graduate wearing a black cap and gown smiles against a dark background. The cap features a red and white tassel with the number "20" attached.

O’Connor Institute Announces John Jay Fetzer Memorial Scholarship Winner

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute Online High School Club Announces Scholarship

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute Announces Youth Civics Programs

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute Releases ‘Citizens Guide to Presidential Primaries’ and More Free, Online Civics Micro-Lessons for Adults

An elderly woman with short white hair stands by a window, holding the curtains open slightly, gazing outside. She is wearing a textured pink jacket. The light creates a soft glow around her.

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute Mourns Passing of Founder

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute Announces Free, Online Civics Courses for Adults

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute Announces Initiative to Produce New Research on Civics

Celebrate Women’s History Month With Sandra Day O’Connor Institute Civics Challenge for Middle Schoolers

A badge with "O'Connor" and a flag, labeled "Civics Challenge Est. 2020," is on the left. Text on the right reads, "Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy Announces National Civics Challenge for Middle Schoolers.

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute For American Democracy Announces National Civics Challenge for Middle Schoolers

A man in glasses and a light blue shirt is standing outdoors, looking at the camera with a slight smile. There is an architectural structure blurred in the background.

O’Connor Institute Constitution Series to Showcase Thomas Sowell

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute For American Democracy Commences Video Challenge

O’Connor Institute Constitution Series Showcases Library of Congress

A person holds a smartphone with both hands. Floating emojis, including a heart, smiley face, crying face, and thumbs-up, appear above the phone, indicating social media interactions. The background is blurred.

O’Connor Institute For American Democracy Launches LAB 102

Constitution Series Spotlights Brown v. Board of Education

Constitution Series Presents Heroes of Abolition and Suffrage Descendants

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute For American Democracy Launched

A smiling man in a navy suit, light blue shirt, and patterned tie stands in front of a brick wall. He has short gray hair and is wearing glasses.

Constitution Series to Feature Stanford’s Claude M. Steele, Ph.D.

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute ‘Constitution Series’ Features D.C. Circuit Court Judge Douglas H. Ginsburg

Sandra Day O’Connor House Named to National Register of Historic Places

In the News

In the News

Judicial Motion

Source: Phoenix Home + Garden

Date: February 1, 2026

Civics education would make for better citizens. Why don’t we have it?

Source: Seattle Times

Date: November 3, 2025

Civics Education Struggles, Even as Government and Politics Saturate Daily Life

Source: New York Times

Date: October 7, 2025

Inside the Classroom: Why Civics Teaching Feels Risky—and How to Fix It

Source: ASU Center for American Civics Podcast

Date: October 1, 2025

Study shows civics educators are scared to teach civics

Source: KPNX - 12 News

Date: September 20, 2025

Civics teachers self-censor their classrooms

Source: Arizona Horizon

Date: September 18, 2025

Study: Fearful Ohio teachers are ‘tiptoeing’ in class as not to outrage parents

Source: The Columbus Dispatch

Date: September 16, 2025

Teachers can’t hold back on civic lessons

Source: Chicago Sun-Times

Date: September 14, 2025

Civics teachers are afraid to teach civics

Source: The Dallas Morning News

Date: September 12, 2025

Young people deserve quality civic education

Source: Bucks County Herald

Date: September 11, 2025

Civics teachers are self-censoring, but political violence shows we need them

Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Date: September 11, 2025

Why teaching civics now comes with fear — in Florida and nationwide

Source: Miami Herald

Date: September 10, 2025

Our Civics Teachers Are Afraid To Teach Civics

Source: RealClear Politics

Date: September 9, 2025

Civics teachers are afraid of political land mines, and students get watered-down lessons

Source: KJZZ

Date: September 8, 2025

Why Some Civics Educators Are Afraid to Teach Their Subject

Source: EducationWeek

Date: September 8, 2025

Why civics teachers are afraid to teach civics

Source: Las Vegas Sun

Date: September 7, 2025

STUDENT VOICE: My generation knows less about civics than my parents’ generation did, yet we need it more than ever

Source: The Hechinger Report

Date: November 26, 2024

Students want more civics education, but far too few schools teach it

Source: The Hechinger Report

Date: October 16, 2024

Civics Education, Civil Discourse, and Civic Engagement

Source: Big Deal Media

Date: October 10, 2024

Liam Julian discusses the importance of civics education

Source: Arizona PBS

Date: September 24, 2024

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute inspires youth civics engagement

Source: Arizona PBS

Date: September 24, 2024

For More Civics in Schools, Dial Down the Controversy

Source: RealClear Politics

Date: September 20, 2024

For more civics in schools, dial down the controversy

Source: Olean Times Herald

Date: September 20, 2024

As civic knowledge declines, programs work to engage young people in democracy

Source: News21

Date: September 3, 2024

Teaching civics to students can also educate their parents

Source: Chicago Tribune

Date: September 22, 2023

Civics initiative: Trickle-down and trickle-up

Source: Arizona PBS

Date: September 18, 2023

Children’s Voting Habits Could Influence Their Parents’ Political Participation

Source: Education Week

Date: September 12, 2023

Blog Posts

Blog

A woman wearing a cowboy hat and checkered shirt rides a brown horse outdoors on a sunny day, ready to build her path through the open land. Coiled rope hangs by her side, with blue sky and distant hills in the background.

The Cowgirl Who Became a Justice

We Build Bridges for Those Who Come After

A woman with short, wavy gray hair wears a long-sleeved blouse with a necktie and a wide belt, facing the camera with a neutral expression. The simple, gradient background evokes the professional setting of Youth Programs.

In Her Lifetime, Everything Changed

A person writes in a notebook with a pen on a desk, contemplating whether to donate. Nearby, a laptop, smartphone, cup, and eyeglasses rest under soft lighting, creating a warm and focused atmosphere.

Self-Governance Isn’t in the Gene Pool

Three people are sitting and having a conversation about must-learn civics. One person holds a coffee cup, while the others gesture as they discuss civics topics in a bright, casually dressed indoor setting.

Civil Discourse Is How Democracy Gets Things Done

A teacher holding a book smiles at the camera while sitting on a desk in a classroom with a "6th Grade Social Studies" sign, where students work in the background—highlighting the importance of Must Learn Civics for young minds.

Every Generation Must Learn Civics

A woman in 18th-century attire sits on a chair, wearing a white lace dress with a pink ribbon belt and a black ribbon around her neck—an elegant portrait perfect for celebrating Women's History Month.

Women’s History Month: Founding Era to Today

A pattern of overlapping human profiles in various skin tones, all with a crumpled, textured appearance, symbolizing diversity and unity—perfect for celebrating Black History Month.

Black History Month and the Foundations of American Civics

A faded, vintage clock with Roman numerals appears on the right, surrounded by soft golden lights and bokeh effects, creating a dreamy, festive atmosphere on a mostly white background—perfect for highlighting unique student perspectives.

A Year of Growth, Impact, and Civic Renewal

What Do Today’s Students See in the Bill of Rights?

Holiday Conversations

Five men in 18th-century attire gather around a table, examining a document. The room features a fireplace, globe labeled "America," and papers—capturing the spirit of Constitution Day and the drafting of the Declaration of Independence.

Unmasking the Founders

A historical painting of the Founding Fathers in a grand room signing the U.S. Constitution, with men in period clothing gathered around a table and an American flag displayed—perfectly capturing the spirit of America's 250th celebration.

Constitution Day: Why Civic Education Matters Now More Than Ever

A cupcake with white frosting and red, white, and blue star sprinkles sits in an American flag-patterned wrapper. Topped with a small U.S. flag, it's a festive treat perfect for celebrating America's 250th anniversary.

Why America’s 250th Matters

Five smiling teenagers stand in front of a brick wall, each carrying backpacks and books, looking at the camera. Their casual jeans and t-shirts reflect a relaxed atmosphere of student engagement and camaraderie.

Students Get Involved This School Year

A man in a suit gestures while speaking to a seated audience in a classroom, engaging them in Civics Education. Behind him is a historic American flag on the wall. Several people are seated at tables with laptops and water bottles.

Educators Deepen Understanding of U.S. Constitution

A Call to Educators

The American flag waves in the wind against a vibrant sky at sunrise or sunset, with sunlight shining through—capturing the spirit of America 250 and our nation’s enduring legacy.

Celebrate 250 Years of American Independence by Renewing Your Civic Spirit

Close-up of the American flag with stars and stripes visible, set against a bright sunrise sky—an inspiring scene reflecting the spirit of the Summer of civics.

Summer of Civics

A black and white photo of a person in a checkered blazer holding a rolled-up paper with the words "We The People" visible. The background is dark and unadorned.

5 Surprising Ways Sandra Day O’Connor Shaped American Democracy

Teaching Civility Through Experience and Exposure

Justice Sandra Day O’Connor’s 95th Birthday

An elderly woman with blond hair sits among a large group of children who are attentively watching something off-frame. She wears a black and gold patterned outfit. The setting appears to be a school or community event.

Celebrating Civic Learning Week & Honoring Justice Sandra Day O’Connor

The image features the text "Looking back at 2024" in elegant script above large, shiny gold numbers "2024." Below, it reads "Sandra Day O'Connor Institute for American Democracy" on a reflective surface.

Looking back at 2024

A rectangular, copper-colored gift box wrapped with a matching satin ribbon is placed on a wooden surface. The ribbon is tied in a neat bow at the center of the gift.

Is a history buff or civic-oriented person on your holiday list?

An elderly woman with short white hair stands by a window, holding the curtains open slightly, gazing outside. She is wearing a textured pink jacket. The light creates a soft glow around her.

Honoring Sandra Day O’Connor

A diverse group of students is seated at a long table in a library, using laptops and reading. Shelves of books are visible in the background. The atmosphere is focused and collaborative.

Free Civics Programs for Students

A wall of colorful digital screens displays various images, including maps, cityscapes, data graphics, and abstract visuals. The scene suggests a high-tech, multimedia environment with a focus on global communication and information.

Celebrating Constitution Day and Voter Registration Day!

Publications

Publications

A snowy park with tall, leafless trees at sunrise. Text overlay reads: "The Citizen. February 2026 Edition." Start your morning with The Citizen in hand.

The Citizen – February 2026

A stack of books with an open book on top, a yellow cup of colored pencils, a small plant, and reading glasses sit in front of a chalkboard featuring "The Citizen, October 2025 Edition.

The Citizen – October 2025

A hand holds a small American flag against a blurred outdoor background. Text overlays read: "The Citizen Summer 2025 Edition," with stars on either side of "Citizen," celebrating community spirit.

The Citizen – Summer Edition 2025

A group of students in patriotic attire stand with hands over their hearts, likely reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Overlaid text reads “the Citizen June 2025 Edition,” celebrating youth and patriotism. Patriotic decorations are visible in the background.

The Citizen – June 2025

Two people sit on stage having a conversation with microphones. Behind them is an American flag and a banner for the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute. Text overlay reads: "the CITIZEN April 2025 Edition.

The Citizen – April 2025

The Citizen – March 2025

The Citizen – December 2024

Cover of "Civics for Life Quarterly" featuring an empty vintage classroom with wooden desks, a chalkboard, and large windows. An American flag is displayed at the front of the room.

Civics for Life Quarterly, Volume 2, Issue 3

A close-up of an "I Voted" sticker roll on an American flag background. Text reads "the Citizen, Summer 2024 Edition" and "Sandra Day O'Connor Institute for American Democracy" in the corner.

The Citizen – Summer 2024

A group of people wearing matching shirts sit in stadium seats. The text "Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy, the Citizen, June 2024 Edition" is overlaid in the center.

The Citizen June 2024

Civics for Life Quarterly, Volume 2, Issue 2

Civics for Life Quarterly, Volume 1, Issue 3

Civics For Life Quarterly Volume 1, Issue 2

Black and white cover of Civics for Life Quarterly, Volume 1, Issue 1, featuring a person holding a scroll labeled "We the People.

Civics for Life Quarterly, Volume 1, Issue 1

Media Contacts

Heather Schader, Chief Operating Officer

Meg Lewis, Communications Manager

Press Kit

Members of the media are invited to learn more about the O'Connor Institute and our work to continue the legacy of the Justice.

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DONATE
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info@oconnorinstitute.org
Mailing AddressP.O. Box 66422 Phoenix, Arizona 85082
Street Address 111 East Taylor Street Phoenix, Arizona 85004
Washington, D.C. 1800 I St. NW Washington, DC 20006

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