Bill of Rights Institute
Focus Areas: Civic Literacy • U.S. Constitution • Youth & Educator Engagement
Audience: High school students • Teachers • Civic educators
Tools: Curriculum • Video lessons • Essay contests • Educator fellowships
Mission
The Bill of Rights Institute’s mission is to educate young people about the Constitution and inspire them to secure the blessings of liberty. They do this by providing teachers with engaging, nonpartisan resources and creating learning opportunities for students that foster critical thinking and civic engagement.
Overview
The Bill of Rights Institute (BRI) is a national nonprofit that develops educational resources and programs to enhance understanding of America’s founding documents, civic principles, and the role of citizens in a constitutional republic. BRI supports teachers, empowers students, and strengthens democratic literacy through nonpartisan educational tools and interactive programming.
Why It Matters
As democratic norms and institutions face growing challenges, there is a clear need to strengthen civic literacy, especially among young people. The Bill of Rights Institute addresses this by fostering informed, thoughtful civic participation rooted in historical understanding and constitutional awareness.
How It Aligns with The Change Lab
The Bill of Rights Institute contributes to the Change Lab’s goal of civic readiness by:
Advancing Civic Literacy with nonpartisan, accessible resources
Supporting Educators as civic connectors in communities
Equipping youth with tools to think critically and participate meaningfully in civic life
Key Programs
Constitution Curriculum
A comprehensive, modular curriculum teaching the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and foundational principles through engaging lessons. 👉 View Curriculum
We the Students Essay Contest
Annual contest inviting students to reflect on civic themes and earn scholarships through persuasive writing. 👉 View Contest
BRI Educator Community
Professional development, training, and resources to support civic educators nationwide.
👉 Teacher Support
BRI Video Series
Engaging short videos explaining key civic topics, ideal for classrooms or independent learning.
👉 Watch Videos
Strategic Alignment
Primary Domains:
🏛 Governance 🏫 Education ⚙️ Systems Change
Pathway Subjects:
Civic Literacy
Community Voice & Power
Public Advocacy
Engagement Pathways:
• Learn About Local Issues
• Take a Civic Quiz
• Share Your Story
• Participate in Local Art/Storytelling Events (Essay Contest)
🧩 Role in the Ecosystem
Engagement Role(s):
Lead Org • Research Partner • Community AllyLevel(s) of Engagement:
Level 1: Awareness & Access
Level 2: Exploration & Expression
Civic Lens Tags:
• Civic Imagination • Belonging & Inclusion • Systems Thinking
Context
Geography: National (U.S.)
Population Focus: High school students, teachers, civic educators
Stage of Relationship: Prospective
Notes: Flagship example for nonpartisan civic education infrastructure
