Bar launches civics education resource for Floridians
Updated Benchmarks program launches in time for Constitution Day
The Florida Bar today launched its updated Benchmarks program, an initiative that provides civics education presentations to Florida community groups and encourages Florida lawyers to become advocates for civics education.
The refreshed program is being unveiled ahead of Constitution Day, an annual observance on September 17 aimed at increasing access to and emphasizing the importance of civic education.
“Our country’s system of government depends on members of the public understanding their rights and responsibilities under the Constitution – so one of our main priorities at The Florida Bar is improving civics education for all Floridians,” said Bar President Gary Lesser. “This program is an outstanding resource for Floridians wanting to learn more about the fundamentals of our government and the courts, and a great way for Florida lawyers to get more involved in their communities.”
The refreshed program includes a new logo, updated social media presence, and other helpful resources. Benchmarks presentations teach on a wide range of civics education topics, including the levels of Florida’s court systems, the role of the U.S. Supreme Court, and the Fourth Amendment, which protects people from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government.
“Increasing awareness of how our government and courts work is critical,” said Constitutional Judiciary Committee Chair Katherine Van de Bogart. “An informed public is the best defense of the rule of law and a fair and impartial judiciary.”
Lawyers will be available to present on civics education statewide, with organizations like Rotary, Tiger Bay, and local Chambers of Commerce encouraged to request speakers through The Florida Bar’s Speaker’s Bureau. Presentations are free and can be conducted in person or virtually. Lawyers interested in becoming Benchmarks speakers undergo training through The Florida Bar, and can get more information at floridabar.org/benchmarks.
