Language Perception Project

In late 2018, PACE undertook a research effort to better understand the perceptions of language our field uses to describe civic engagement and democracy work. In other words, when we say “civic engagement” or “democracy” or “patriotism,” “activism,” or “justice” to most Americans, what do they hear? And what does it mean to them? The research illuminated a great deal about Americans’ relationship to civic language. A central goal of this effort was to spark conversation—both about what we heard, and how the findings might inform the work of practitioners. In addition to sharing their findings, PACE has also shared a group discussion guide.