Civics & Citizenship

Recapture Our American Civil Discourse

Candace teaches the fundamentals of liberty that inspired the American system of government.
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Senate Filibuster: Past, Present, Future

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What is the Senate filibuster, and how does it work? Let’s examine this issue. The Senate was meant to be a deliberative body, using debate and persuasion to come to a decision that benefits We the People. But now, it is merely a clash of partisans. In a sense, some say we have lost our Republic because we no longer use the art of persuasive debate to convince others. Instead, Senators merely go along with a certain agenda proposed by the partisan in charge. The interests of We the People no longer have primary status. History and Origins of the Filibuster On the other hand, the filibuster makes for good theater. It used to be fun to watch a Senator make their case while standing on their feet for hours with no bathroom break and no one allowed to take their place. After many hours, they might read from a phone book, Dr. Seuss, or the public notices page of the newspaper, all to block or delay legislation by extending debate. The typical use of the filibuster has been to “talk …

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Honoring America’s Brave Veterans

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Tuesday, November 11, is Veterans Day. Finding a conversation about real American heroes can sometimes be difficult. Instead, headlines often feature controversy or political debate. Why not commemorate and celebrate our eternally vigilant men and women who are America’s courageous living heroes? After all, Veterans know better than most what it takes to preserve true freedom. We all could use a humble reminder of their motivating courage, bravery, and love of country.  Reflecting on a Veteran’s Journey Veterans are considered heroes by Americans who appreciate fellow citizens with strength and courage that appear to come from beyond themselves. Veterans Day brings stories and adventures of Marvel-like superheroes to life, that is, if you can get the humble Veteran to open up and talk about them. Veterans possess humility in a society where getting the most attention on social media is the highest admired attribute. A veteran’s humility goes contrary to that …

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Candace has a variety of teaching experiences and is a certified instructor for adults and homeschoolers through the Institute on the Constitution. Her hobbies include walking, world travel, Pilates, writing, and spending time with her grandsons. …

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Recent Articles

Senate Filibuster: Past, Present, Future

What is the Senate filibuster, and how does it work? Let’s examine this issue. The Senate was meant to be a deliberative body, using debate and persuasion to come to a decision that benefits We the People. But now, it is merely a clash of partisans. In a sense, some say we have lost our […]

Honoring America’s Brave Veterans

Tuesday, November 11, is Veterans Day. Finding a conversation about real American heroes can sometimes be difficult. Instead, headlines often feature controversy or political debate. Why not commemorate and celebrate our eternally vigilant men and women who are America’s courageous living heroes? After all, Veterans know better than most what it takes to preserve true […]

The Cost of Convenience: Freedom vs. Freebies

Why would people trade freedom for free stuff?  Our Founders believed a good working definition of freedom is “A state of exemption from the power or control of another; liberty; exemption from slavery, servitude, or confinement.”  (See https://webstersdictionary1828.com/ ). Look up the former Soviet Union or Venezuela. We the People in certain cities (yes, plural, […]

Defending American Values in a Divided Age

Are you being harassed for your American views on law and government? Are you being overpowered in conversations, where no amount of logic or civil discourse can occur? Are you being bullied into accepting robbery, arson, theft, and violence as “normal” or “necessary”? Why Traditionalism Still Matters You are not alone. Remember, it’s ok to […]

Understanding the National Guard’s Dual Role

When storms hit our nation or major protests erupt, who shows up to protect our communities? Our National Guard is uniquely positioned as both a state‑controlled force and a federal reserve. Let’s dispel some common misconceptions. One of my students’ questions will serve as a springboard for our discussion. Why the No Kings Talk Matters […]

The Cloward‑Piven Playbook: Crisis‑Driven Change

The “Cloward-Piven strategy” was developed by sociologists Richard Cloward and Frances Fox Piven in the 1960s. I was an observer in a conversation of intellectual types that included people who believe this is what is happening in the United States. The description of this political theory/strategy varies, depending on who you talk to. Although it […]

Returning to the Declaration; America’s Roots

As we continue to study the Declaration of Independence, let’s examine the opening line of this founding document and connect it to current events in the United States. Historical Context: 1775‑76 vs. Today “The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America, When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one […]

Basic Bill of Rights Quiz

Test your knowledge of the Bill of Rights. How many of these Jr. High quick quiz questions can you answer? 1. Congress cannot prohibit the free exercise of _____________. 2. Who cannot be quartered in your home without your permission? ___________ 3. As an American, you have the right to keep and bear_______. 4. The […]

Faith, Freedom, and the Founders’ Words

As a lead-up to our country’s 250th birthday celebration, we are continuing in our study of the Declaration of Independence.  In my research, I have found it beneficial to look at some of the “back stories” of the Declaration. (for example,  Charles Carroll, the longest living signer of the Declaration.) The Religious Landscape of the […]