Civil Engagement Organizations Essay

The Importance of Civil Engagement Organizations

According to Democracy in America, a 19th century work penned by Alexis de Tocqueville, “The health of a democratic society may be measured by the quality of functions performed by private citizens.” Tocqueville seemed to believe that the driving force behind American democracy was the willingness to create and maintain civil associations. This idea is very true. Civic organizations such as the NAACP, MADD, and LULAC all rally together citizens who support a common interest and are willing to personally commit to engaging in these organizations to build a productive, efficient and significant impact for change. Just as the age-old adage goes, “There is power in numbers.” Civic organizations give marginalized citizens a chance to have their voices heard. These organizations usually engage citizens who don’t normally participate in conversations on civic and public policy independently. Being part of an organization that has a common interest can boost the confidence of even the most timid participant. By using different forms of media and communications, civic organizations keep citizens informed and aware of certain issues that pertain to their respective common interests. Civic organizations help to

Although these pursuits often start locally, with consistent and well-executed plans of action, civil organizations gain potential election power. With this newfound power, civil organizations find that by electing certain local officials, these local officials will either support federal officials or become federal officials and therefore the agenda of their respective civil organization will continue to be pushed and their views will be shared on a larger scale. With the support of these officials, prospective laws can be introduced and liberties can remain