Test your civics knowledge: virtual events are back
Throughout June and July, Ohio Civics Essential will host panelists and foster discussions about opioids, marijuana laws, and checks and balances. The events are free and open to the public.
Ohio Civics Essential
Ohio Civics Essential was created to improve the civics knowledge of Ohio adults and published from July 2018 – July 2021. Civics Essential is a multimedia program which includes relevant feature stories, resource guides, in person and virtual learning tools, quizzes and surveys, plus virtual panel events. The series has reached over 3.8 million people with over 48,000 engagements. Find the series in Ohio Issue Media Group publications Soapbox Cincinnati, Fresh Water Cleveland and Hub Springfield. The Ohio State Bar Foundation (OSBF) awarded their first strategic grant initiative to raise the civics knowledge of adult Ohioans to Issue Media Group (IMG), through Cincinnati Development Fund acting as our fiscal agent. We appreciate the Ohio State Bar Foundation for the support to make this series possible; for our outstanding volunteer editorial advisory that met regularly over 3 years; and for the scholars, legal experts, active and retired lawyers, judges, and nonprofit professionals who participated and continue to advocate for civic education, participation, and engagement. Press Club of Cleveland’s 2022 All Ohio Excellence in Journalism Awards recognized Civics Essential contributing writer Bob Sandrick who covered challenging topics in year three of the Ohio Civics Essential series that continue at the top of the headlines today. He earned 2nd place for Analysis, a category competition that “displays fine examples of work diving deep into important topics. They demonstrate commitments to providing service for their communities.” The judges commented “This collection of reports analyzes such vital issues as justice reform and the electoral college. Details from numerous sources help deliver solid work that informs the public.” Sandrick’s work was additionally recognized by the Greater Cincinnati Pro Chapter 2022 Excellence in Journalism for the Written Communication awards for Government and Community Issues Reporting.
Ohio Civics Essential: upcoming virtual panels
This four-part virtual series will feature two panelists and a moderator, and cover themes like “How Your Government Works,” “How Your Courts Work,” and “Your Power as a Citizen.”
Criminal justice reform: What is it and why is it important?
Most people want to believe that the criminal justice system will never intersect with their lives. But according to a 2019 report by Cornell University, about 45% of Americans at one time have seen an immediate family member incarcerated.
Ohio Civics Essential: A look back at our state’s presidents and how they shaped today’s parties
During this presidential inaugural season, a look back at inaugural speeches by the eight presidents from Ohio shows that each had plenty to say, rightly or wrongly, about issues that still resonate today, like elections, balance of power, race, immigration and foreign policy.
Systemic racism is embedded in our society due to past issues that led to present problems
In some ways, Ohio has been progressive on civil rights issues, but we have a long way to go with housing, education, employment, and healthcare. Bob Sandrick interviewed a few people around the state hoping to drive change.
Opioids and the pandemic: In the midst of isolation, there is hope
Although Ohio will likely have more overdose deaths this year than last, local courts and organizations are working to help people recover without penalty.
Technology helps communities and organizations get the word out about ballot issues
Part of the responsibility of information gathering still lies with the voters — especially in rural areas — but there are people trying to get the information out through as many channels as possible.
Voting 201: Options in Ohio, plus myths debunked
Now more than ever, your voice needs to be heard. Here’s how to do it safely and on time.
