Empowering Civic Learning Across Rhode Island
Our Mission
The Rhode Island Civic Learning Coalition (RICLC) is a multiracial, multiethnic, and multigenerational coalition committed to ensuring that all Rhode Islanders, including young people and those most marginalized from our democratic system, have equitable access to high-quality civic learning opportunities so that our democracy is one in which all people are empowered, participate and are heard.
Founded in 2021, RICLC is a growing nonpartisan group of nonprofits, community organizations, educators, youth, and other partners committed to ensuring equitable civic learning for all Rhode Islanders. What unites us together is our commitment to this advocacy and our shared values of equity, diversity, continued learning and the pursuit of systemic impact.
Our Goals
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Legislative & Infrastructure Development
Secure dedicated funding from the state of Rhode Island and institutional support to ensure equitable implementation of Rhode Island's 2021 Civics Literacy Act across all districts.
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Educator Support & Resources
Convene, organize and develop high-quality, equity-centered professional development and resources that prepare educators to effectively implement civics education standards.
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Assessment & Youth Engagement
Establish systems to measure civic learning outcomes and engagement while ensuring students are central participants in civics education advocacy and implementation.
How we get there
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Policy Advocacy
After successful lobbying for the pass Civics Literacy Acts of 2021, RICLC is now advocating for legislation that would fund essential resources for civics education in schools across Rhode Island.
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Research
In partnership with Tufts Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE), RICLC published The State of Civic Education in Rhode Island report in 2022.
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Media
With coverage in publications across the state, RICLC is dedicated to spotlighting the perspectives of the students and educators most affected by civic education access.
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Local Programming
RICLC’s annual Civic Learning Week organizes programming hosted by local partners to highlight the importance of civic education in sustaining and strengthening constitutional democracy.