In the United States, the last formal education most of us received about civics—or how our government operates—likely took place back in middle or high school. However, the dynamics of governance extend far beyond what we learned in our youth, and unfortunately, our understanding often fails to evolve as we grow into voting adults.

The daily news cycle tends to spotlight the presidency with a sensationalist zeal, focusing on high drama at the expense of local issues that directly impact our lives. As a result, many of us head to the polls with a clear idea of the presidential candidates but little knowledge about local elected positions such as county assessors, sheriffs, or city council members. This lack of information contributes to America's notoriously low voter turnout and a general sense of disillusionment.

At The F.U.N. Manifesto, we are addressing this gap through our Civics 101 initiative. Our goal is simple: to deliver crucial civic knowledge in digestible, bite-sized pieces. We aim to provide you with the clear, concise information needed to make informed decisions about the officials who run your local government—officials whose salaries are funded by your tax dollars.

Over the next few months, Civics 101 will offer a mix of content and conversations designed to foster understanding and encourage engagement. As we delve into the workings of the three branches of government and the various elected positions at different levels, we hope to empower you to make better choices at the ballot box.

It’s essential to recognize that the phrase "We the People" did not originally include a vast portion of today’s American populace. Our nation was founded by immigrants, and yet, many were excluded from early narratives—including women and people of color. Civics 101 is here to broaden that narrative and to include all voices in the ongoing dialogue about who we are and who we wish to become as a nation.

As we stand at a crossroads, understanding the stakes has never been more critical. Join us in this journey to demystify civics, ensuring that every citizen is equipped with the knowledge to participate meaningfully in our democracy. Civics 101 isn't just about learning—it's about coming together to shape a more informed, inclusive future.