In 1832, a 23-year-old political rookie running for the Illinois General Assembly issued a statement praising education as “the most important subject which we as a people can be engaged in”; learning to read (especially history books), he added, “appears to be an object of vital importance….”
That man was Abraham Lincoln.
The future 16th president understood George Mason’s famous maxim: That no free government, or the blessings of liberty, can be preserved to any people but by … frequent recurrence to fundamental principles.” If we neglect the foundations of American government, we cannot make informed decisions about her future. It was true in Mason’s day. It was true in Lincoln’s day. It’s still just as true in our day.
Lincoln also proved that even young Americans can firmly grasp and defend “fundamental principles.” In fact, young people stand on the frontlines — if the rising generation is unprepared to carry the torch of liberty, the American experiment itself cannot endure.
That’s why Citizens for Self-Governance is thrilled to offer a 4-week constitutional communication bootcamp for high school students ages 14-17. The COS Cadets program goes beyond a traditional civics education, helping young people develop the confidence and communication skills to clearly articulate foundational American values.
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Over four 90-minute live, interactive sessions, students will discover the timeless principles that shaped our great nation, exploring the foundations of government, constitutional limits on government power, and the Founders’ proposed solution to federal tyranny. Building on the knowledge they’ve learned and the communication skills they’ve developed over the first three weeks, the experience culminates in a thrilling speech competition!
The program runs on Saturday afternoons from May 9-30 and offers young patriots the chance to discover their voices as American citizens and preserve freedom for the next generation. It’s time to return to our roots, recapture our heritage, and restore the Founding Fathers’ vision for freedom! Young people are rising up to lead the charge. Apply today to join the inaugural class of cadets or share this opportunity with a high school student in your life!