Introducing our Civics Field Guide

Here in Mississippi, the principles of American democracy are not abstract or theoretical — they have literally charted the history of our state and transformed the ways in which we interact with one another.

Yet in the current hyperpartisan environment of the 2024 presidential election, even the word democracy raises hairs among many Mississippians. That’s why we at Mississippi Today, the state’s flagship nonprofit newsroom, have put our team to work at bringing us all back to basics about what it means to live in a democracy.

Mississippi Today’s Civics Field Guide is a collection of explainers, graphics and tools to help engage readers in important aspects of democratic life: free and fair elections, accountability, freedom of speech and the press, governmental checks and balances and civic engagement.

What the Guide Will Include:

• Civic Education: Simplified explanations of how local, state, and federal governments operate
• Voter Information: Step-by-step guidance on how to register, voter rights, and Election Day logistics
• Media Literacy: Tips on evaluating news sources and understanding the role of journalism in democracy
• Interactive Tools: Maps, checklists, and other engaging content to help readers prepare for the polls
• Resources and Tools: Directories of representatives, important dates, and educational resources to keep voters informed

Our hope is that the Civics Field Guide will serve as a refresher on the fundamentals of the freedoms we enjoy as Americans, and a reminder of the sacred right so many Mississippians fought to ensure: That every person, regardless of their gender, race, socioeconomic status or personal belief system, could have a voice at the ballot box.

Most of our state’s most prohibitive voting laws have been repealed over the years, but modern-day policymakers have made Mississippi one of the most difficult states to vote in America. In November 2023, when we held our most recent statewide election, just 43% of registered Mississippi voters made their voices heard.

In recent years, those in power have carefully gerrymandered legislative and judicial districts; stripped from voters the ballot initiative process and thus the people’s only avenue to circumvent inaction of elected officials; packed the courts with politically aligned judges; and shut out dissenters in opposing parties and even their own. While Mississippi as a whole boasts more Black elected officials than any other state, those officials hold little power or influence in state government.

Still, the importance of democracy goes beyond simply casting a ballot. It’s about staying informed, engaging with your neighbors, and utilizing available methods to hold elected officials accountable. Your civic involvement between elections helps ensure that Mississippi continues to progress and prosper.

We believe that with a better understanding of your rights and responsibilities, you can make informed choices that will help shape the future of your community and state. Democracy is a team sport, and no one can afford to sit on the sidelines. The Mississippi Today Civics Field guide aims to help you become your best civic self, and we invite you to jump in the game and help us shape the topic areas covered in this one of a kind toolkit by giving us feedback through this survey.