Does the youth understand their responsibilities as a citizen?
Civic responsibility includes mandatory duties and voluntary responsibilities. Mandatory duties include obeying the law, paying taxes, serving on a jury when summoned and registering with selective service. Voluntary responsibilities include voting, staying informed on community issues, being involved in the community, practicing tolerance and sharing resources with people who are less fortunate.
The Autistic Self Advocacy Network has a toolkit called “Your Vote Counts: A Self-Advocate’s Guide to Voting in the U.S.” that helps youth understand what voting is, how to register to vote, voting with a disability, and how elections work. The toolkit is available in plain language and is for anyone with a disability.
There are many ways people can get involved in government beyond voting! Use the Civic Engagement Toolbox for Self-Advocates from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network to teach youth about contacting their elected officials and advocating for laws and policies they care about. The toolbox is available in plain language and is for anyone with a disability.
