General Civics  and Community Advocacy Workshops

These workshops will address the community’s lack of knowledge of our government at the federal, state and municipal levels as well as the types of advocacy employed at each level with regard to matters of concern to the African community.  Individuals will learn and know their rights as citizens and immigrants. 

Workshop 1 — General Civics 

• Topics addressed in the workshop will include the introduction and education of the individual’s rights under local,state, and federal laws.
• A basic overview of the government’s foundation including the Constitution, Bill of Rights, political parties, history, geography, and the importance of being civically engaged through voting.

Workshop 2 — Community Advocacy

• Topics addressed in the workshop will include an introduction of the various local, state and federal branches of government as well as helping individuals understand the function of each branch in order to deepen understanding before they learn about advocacy and community outreach. 
• Educating immigrants on their rights when engaging U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
• Educating immigrants on their housing rights as tenants.
• Educating immigrants on how to use social media to advocate to and engage elected officials on various issues.  Social media, particularly Twitter has revolutionized the relationships between constituents and electeds.  Constituents can directly ask questions and receive referrals or assistance.