Civic education is the cornerstone of a thriving nation. On Constitution Day, the O’Connor Institute explores why understanding how government works—and empowering teachers and citizens with civic knowledge—is more important now than ever.
Each year on September 17, America marks Constitution Day, celebrating the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. More than a commemoration, Constitution Day is a reminder of the vital role we the people play in sustaining our country. At the core of that role is civic education—the understanding of how our government works, our rights, and how we can engage effectively and responsibly in civic life.
In 2025, civic education is not simply a subject for students—it’s a necessity for all Americans.
A Nation at a Civic Crossroads
The Sandra Day O’Connor Institute’s 2024 Research Brief: When and Why Did America Stop Teaching Civics? reveals urgent concerns. While 89% of Americans agree that democracy depends on an informed and active citizenry, fewer than one in three adults report feeling very confident in their understanding of how the U.S. government functions.
Perhaps most striking, two-thirds of Americans say they rarely or never had meaningful civics instruction in school. This civic knowledge gap threatens not only participation but also trust in our institutions and among one another.
But the challenges don’t end with students. Teachers themselves often feel underprepared and unsupported when it comes to teaching civics. The O’Connor Institute’s 2025 Policy Brief, Why Are Teachers Uncomfortable Teaching Civics?, offers an urgent diagnosis: K–12 civics teachers across the country report discomfort, disorientation, and even fear when asked to deliver the very subject they were hired to teach.
In the Institute's 2025 Research Brief: Why Are Teachers Uncomfortable Teaching Civics?, original research found nearly 80% say they have self-censored in the classroom. More than 85% cite fear of controversy as a major obstacle. Fewer than 15% report receiving clear guidance on what they are allowed to teach.
When teachers lack the tools, training, and support to provide meaningful civics instruction, students lose out—and so does our democracy. Ensuring educators are empowered to teach civics with confidence is just as important as making sure students have access to it.
These findings aren’t just statistics—they’re a call to action. In a time of increasing polarization, disinformation, and declining civic trust, civic education is more than important—it’s urgent.
Carrying Forward Justice O’Connor’s Legacy
Justice Sandra Day O’Connor recognized that civic learning is essential to democratic stability. After retiring from the U.S. Supreme Court, she championed efforts to ensure future generations—and all citizens—understood the principles and processes of American government. She once said, “The better educated our citizens are, the better equipped they will be to preserve the system of government we have.”
The Institute she founded continues this mission through research, programming, and resources that promote civic knowledge, civil discourse, and civic engagement. The Institute’s efforts emphasize the importance of lifelong access to civic learning, not just in school, but throughout all stages of life.
Education + Engagement = Empowerment
The O’Connor Institute’s research shows that Americans who are more confident in their civic knowledge are also more likely to vote, engage in civil discussions, and trust democratic institutions. This connection between what we know and how we participate is key.
That’s why the Institute offers platforms like Civics for Life and Public Square, designed for all generations to foster lifelong civic literacy and respectful conversation across differences. These tools help people explore the Constitution, current issues, and civic responsibilities in accessible, nonpartisan ways.
Constitution Day: A Moment to Reflect—and Act
Constitution Day isn’t just about history—it’s about our future. This September 17, we encourage every American to:
- Learn more about how our government works and where your voice fits in.
- Reflect on how your civic knowledge influences your engagement.
- Take action—whether that means voting, volunteering, or simply listening with empathy to someone with a different perspective.
The future of our country depends on us. Not just once every four years at the ballot box, but every day in our homes, classrooms, communities, workplaces, and conversations.
Explore More:
- When & Why Did America Stop Teaching Civics? – Younger Americans are less knowledgeable about civics than previous American generations.
- Why Are Teachers Uncomfortable Teaching Civics? - K–12 civics teachers across the country feel underprepared, unsupported, and increasingly afraid to teach vital material.
- Public Square – Participate in thoughtful, nonpartisan discussions about topics that matter.
