‘How we got here’: Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library to host civics event June 24

The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum (WWPL) is proud to join more than 700 museums and historic sites across the country for Civic Season, a growing national tradition designed to engage youth in shaping the future of American democracy.

To mark the occasion locally, WWPL will host its first annual “Civics in the Shade” on Tuesday, June 24, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the museum’s garden. The free event invites the community to enjoy pizza, conversation and civic fun in a relaxed setting. The event will be held rain or shine.

“It’s all about connecting with each other and with the ideas that have shaped our country. We’re inviting people of all ages, especially young adults, to explore what civics means today and how they can make a difference,” WWPL President and CEO Robin von Seldeneck said.

The event will feature: free pizza, advocacy button-making, hands-on civic activities, community partner booths, and open conversations about democracy and engagement.

“We designed ‘Civics in the Shade’ to make civics feel approachable and fun. From advocacy button-making to conversations about real-world issues, we want young people to feel like their voices matter, because they do,” Emily Kilgore, WWPL Director of Education, said.

Held each year from Juneteenth through July 4, Civic Season is co-created by Gen Z leaders, museums and historians, linking the country’s newest and oldest holidays to build a stronger future. The event is part of a nationwide effort to prepare for the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.

Now in its fifth year, Civic Season is an initiative of “Made By Us,” a coalition of leading institutions including the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, the New-York Historical Society and the Atlanta History Center.

“In five years, Civic Season has bloomed into a beloved ritual that connects millions of Americans with our past, present and future possibilities. The creative events, local community gatherings and self-guided learning journeys help us all explore ‘how we got here’ and take action to shape the future,” Made By Us Executive Director Caroline Klibanoff said.

Hundreds of activities and resources can be found online, ranging from all-day, in-person events to five-minute virtual ideas. A complete list of WWPL Civic Season activities is available online also.

“With Civic Season gaining national traction, it’s a great time for Staunton to be part of this movement. It puts our community on the map as a place where history and civic action go hand in hand,” von Seldeneck said.

The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library is at 230 E. Frederick St., Staunton, and dedicated to preserving the legacy of the 28th President of the United States while fostering civic engagement and leadership education. Through interactive programs and exhibits, the library aims to inspire young minds to become active, informed citizens.