Local perspectives on understanding issues in our democracy 

As many of us are aware, the old "civics book" model of democratic citizenship and participation no longer works to invite most citizens to participate and engage in our political process. 

The New Citizens Watch  is an extension of the participatory democratic ideals that arose in the1960s based on core values that include civic engagement, political equality, solidarity, trust, tolerance for diverse views and people, and encouragement of civic organizations and associations.  More importantly, The New Citizenship enables us to realize that to be a real American citizen requires more civic participation than merely showing up and voting in periodic elections.
The New Citizens Watch recognizes that grassroots mobilizing, community participation, service learning, and the Internet are all potential tools for enabling citizens to directly participate in modern politics.  The New Citizenship is founded on the belief,  " . . .that people are not born as citizens, they need to be educated and trained."  

Modern American life makes it difficult to have the leisure necessary to engage in community and lifelong learning that are the building blocks of citizenship. This contributes to the sense of social and cultural isolation we sense in our country.  The Information Age saturates us with data, but often we do not have the tools and skills necessary to make meaning or gain knowledge from it.

The New Citizens Watch Series will focus monthly on one major issue of the day.  We will set a common ground for the issue by using various media to provide basic background information.  Then we will follow up with an informed audience discussion offering ways and techniques on how citizens can engage at different levels.  

Sponsored by Public Access of Indianapolis, Inc.