Democracy thrives when people speak up, take action, and help strengthen their communities.
The Minnesota Civic Seal recognizes and rewards students who live that out.
What Is the Minnesota Civic Seal?
The Minnesota Civic Seal is a recognition for students who go beyond learning about democracy and actually practice it. To earn the Seal, students choose a real issue they care about, research it, learn how government works, and take meaningful action to create change in their community.
Along the way, students build practical skills — how to advocate respectfully, communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and navigate systems. It’s hands-on civic learning that strengthens local communities while preparing young people to participate thoughtfully and confidently in public life.
Earning the Civic Seal signals initiative, leadership, and commitment to community. It distinguishes students on college applications, scholarships, and job opportunities — but more importantly, it reflects the habits and skills of an engaged citizen who is ready to make a difference.
The Civic Seal isn’t just an award. It’s proof that a student knows how to turn ideas into action.
Why This Matters
Young people see democracy more clearly than many adults realize. They see the dysfunction, partisanship gridlock, and decisions made without them about the world they'll inherit for the next 50 years.
The numbers prove it:
69% of young people believe the nation is more divided than ever
Only 23% of young people trust adults in their own community
Only 2 in 5 young people feel somewhat prepared for civic participation based on their civic education experiences
Only 19% of young people believe society is headed towards a better future
Source: NORC web survey for America's Promise Alliance, June-July 2024, with 1,555 young people ages 13-24 nationwide
The Opportunity
But those numbers don’t tell the whole story. Young people care deeply about their communities. They have thoughtful ideas about what could work better. And they want to contribute in meaningful ways.
The opportunity isn't about convincing young people to care. It’s about creating clear, accessible pathways that allow them to make a real and immediate impact.
The Minnesota Civic Seal creates that pathway. This year, as we celebrate America's 250th anniversary, there has never been a better time to invest in its future. Young people are ready to engage. The Minnesota Civic Seal helps translate their energy into lasting democratic participation and stronger communities for all of us.
Two Ways to Get Involved
For Students: Earn Your Civic Seal
Ready to make your mark? The Minnesota Civic Seal program guides you through choosing an issue you care about, building your civic skills, and taking action that creates real change.
You will earn points through activities in five categories: Democratic Engagement, Civic Knowledge, Media Literacy, Community Service, and Bridge Building.
Complete 120 points, finish a Civic Action Project, and create a Video Showcase to earn your seal.
For Supporters: Protect Our Freedoms by Investing in the Next Generation
Civic engagement is how we protect our freedoms and strengthen our communities. Minnesota is working to join the 12 states that already recognize civically engaged students with a diploma seal. With bipartisan support from 23 legislators and backing from 14+ organizations, we are building momentum — but we need your voice.
It will not be easy. But we have done hard things before and we can do them again.