Applied Civics
Course Credits: 10
Course Curriculum Used:
Library, computer, and media materials as necessary to research projects
Course Description:
This study focuses on the responsibilities of people in a global society. It explores building community and taking action to create a kinder world. Student will seek out, research, and participate in volunteer activities and fund-raising for local and global causes
Project Examples
Recycling Ink Cartridges to help the planet and raise funds for projects
Mentoring young musicians
Participating in peace vigils
Attending political rallies
Studying the effects of global warming
Attending lecture by former President Jimmy Carter
Playing Jazz Violin in a benefit concert for Shelter House
Participating in a benefit concert for Smile Train to fund cleft pallet surgeries
Playing piano for patients and visitors at Mercy Hospital
Click Here to see MOE projects
Peace Vigil
The first day of 2007 marked a milestone in the Iraq war. The 3000th American casualty occurred shortly before the break of the new year. The magnitude of that number is almost incomprehensible. Standing out in the sub freezing Iowa night, I was met with a show of support to end the war. I joined a hundred other protesters on a block in downtown Iowa City where we lit candles to symbolize the lives lost, and to show our angst and discontent with the war. The number who attended was large, especially for such a cold night, and inopportune date.
One of the fascinating things about people with a true goal is the fact that they will do almost anything to reach it. The mere act of standing in the freezing night doesn't seem like much at first thought, but upon later contemplation, I realized something. The only way for our voices to be heard in this issue is to do this sort of simple act. Standing outside to protest is the first step to showing support for a peaceful resolution of the war. People have been doing this since the first democracy, and it's the only way to let a government know it's people are discontent.
It is my belief that being at peace with all people is the only way that people can find peace within themselves. By showing our support of peace, one hundred Iowa-Citians, and countless others across the nation were stepping toward peace within themselves.