The business case for civics is just that — business and civic knowledge are connected in ways we don’t generally consider when we understand the two issues separately.
Why it matters: Did you know there are 160 million people in the workforce? Increasing civic engagement, understanding and awareness will lead to a more educated workforce on the essential function of business, and the companies that employ them. Studies have shown that citizens with a working understanding of how government works are also more likely to understand and appreciate how business interests and capitalism support our economy and day to day life.
What they’re saying: Did you know that 60% of Americans would give up their right to vote to keep their ability to engage on social media? This astounding statistic is a grave illustration of the lack of civic literacy in our country, and one that threatens the future of not only our state but our democracy as a whole.
Yes, but: How do we work to address this knowledge deficit? The Michigan Chamber Foundation is taking preventative steps to educate, empower and enlighten Michiganders in all 83 counties.
- Opportunities like the National Civics Bee, which if offered for the first time in Michigan in 2024, allow middle school students to get engaged and flex their civics skills.
- In partnership with the U.S. Chamber, assisting businesses and employees to encourage volunteerism through election working and jury duty.
Listen in: Our latest Mi Business Matters podcast episode features Hilary Crow, vice president of civics for the U.S. Chamber Foundation, as she sheds light on this important topic and more on how the Michigan Chamber Foundation has partnered to encourage more engagement in Michigan’s workforce.
The bottom line: As Hilary shares, “even though polarization can feel hopeless and overwhelming, the way to combat that is for reasonable people to lean into their communities” and elected officials to engage in a grassroots way to show support. We cannot wait any longer to get involved.
Learn more: Reach out to Becky Burtka at bburtka@michamber.com for more information on how to get your employees involved in your elections, and visit www.michamber.com/micivicsbee to learn more about the National Civics Bee in Michigan.