Discovering Your Influence: Why Your Voice Matters in American Civic Life

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“Discovering Your Influence: Why Your Voice Matters in American Civic Life” is an online course designed for Israeli-American activists and American pro-Israel advocates who may feel like their voices are not being heard in American civic life. Through a series of interactive lessons, participants will gain a deeper understanding of their role in American democracy and learn how to effectively advocate for their communities.

The course is divided into three sections. In the first section, “Understanding American Civic Life,” participants will explore the history and structure of American government, as well as the rights and responsibilities of American citizens. They will learn about the different levels of government, the role of political parties, and how to effectively engage with elected officials.

In the second section, “Finding Your Voice,” participants will learn how to develop a strong message and effectively communicate it to others. They will gain skills in public speaking, media relations, and messaging. They will also learn how to build relationships with other activists and advocates to amplify their voices.

Finally, in the third section, “Making an Impact,” participants will learn how to take action and make a difference in their communities. They will learn about different forms of activism, from grassroots organizing to lobbying elected officials. They will also learn about the importance of data and research in supporting policy development and advocacy efforts.

Overall, this course is designed to empower Israeli-American activists and American pro-Israel advocates to become effective leaders and make a positive impact on the issues that matter most to them. By the end of the course, participants will have gained the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to make their voices heard and create change in their communities.

Course Title: Discovering Your Influence: Why Your Voice Matters in American Civic Life

Course Description: This course is designed to help members of immigrant communities in America understand their role in American civic life and develop the skills necessary to make their voices heard. Through a series of interactive lessons, students will explore the importance of civic engagement, the power of community organizing, and the impact of advocacy on public policy. By the end of the course, students will have gained the knowledge and confidence to become active participants in American democracy.

Course Objectives:

  • Understand the importance of civic engagement and its impact on American democracy.
  • Identify the different ways to get involved in civic life and choose the best strategy for you.
  • Learn the key components of community organizing and how to develop a successful campaign.
  • Discover the role of advocacy in shaping public policy and how to effectively communicate with elected officials.
  • Develop a plan for ongoing civic engagement and become a confident and effective advocate.

Course Outline:

Section 1: Introduction to Civic Engagement

  • Lesson 1: The Importance of Civic Engagement
  • Lesson 2: The History of American Democracy
  • Lesson 3: How Immigrants Can Make a Difference

Section 2: Getting Involved in Civic Life

  • Lesson 1: Different Ways to Get Involved
  • Lesson 2: Finding Your Passion
  • Lesson 3: Developing a Civic Plan

Section 3: Community Organizing

  • Lesson 1: What is Community Organizing?
  • Lesson 2: Building a Successful Campaign
  • Lesson 3: Mobilizing Your Community

Section 4: Advocacy and Public Policy

  • Lesson 1: Advocacy and Its Impact on Public Policy
  • Lesson 2: Communicating with Elected Officials
  • Lesson 3: How to Influence Public Policy

Section 5: Taking Action

  • Lesson 1: Developing a Personal Action Plan
  • Lesson 2: Becoming a Confident and Effective Advocate
  • Lesson 3: Joining a Community of Advocates

Assessment and Grading:

  • Participation in class discussions and activities: 40%
  • Completion of assignments and quizzes: 40%
  • Final project and presentation: 20%

Prerequisites: None

Course Content

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Section 1: Introduction to American Civic Life
Section 2: Understanding Your Own Identity and Community
Section 3: Overcoming Barriers to Civic Participation
Section 4: Advocacy and Activism in American Civic Life
Section 5: Putting Your Voice into Action