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Steps for Illinois’ Civic Renewal

Illinois 2009 Civic Health Report

November 18, 2009

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Illinois Civic Health Index 2009Click to Download PDF Document

Although Illinois did not fare as well as the national average on some measures of civic engagement, there were some bright spots. Differing from their perceptions of state government, Illinoisans showed greater trust in people’s good intentions, thinking that generally people try to be helpful (62 percent among Illinoisans versus 58 percent nationwide). They were also more likely to feel that their peers are helping each other through the tough economic times (22 percent among Illinoisans compared with 19 percent nationally), showing that Illinoisans’ attitudes about their peers remain positive. Additionally, a lower percentage of Illinoisans (23 percent) noticed staff and budget cuts in their school district compared with the national average of 32 percent, which is positive news on the economic front. Illinois seems to have a strong civic core, that is, a small group of people who are highly engaged; the problem, then, lies in the mobilization of other Illinoisans who are generally disengaged. Without incentives, those who are generally disengaged might not get involved due to the recent political disappointments.

On a positive note, many Illinois political ofﬁcials recognize the pattern of dishonesty and inefﬁciency perpetuated by other state politicians. In order to bring energy back into the citizenry, signiﬁcant steps have been taken to help change overall perceptions of Illinois politics. For example, the “Illinois Accountability Portal” which passed both Houses in 2009 (but not yet signed by Governor Quinn), would increase transparency by enabling Illinoisans to see where their tax dollars are being spent. According to the Daily Herald, the Illinois “state citizenry has seen more than its share of wasteful, extravagant spending in state government, not to mention corruption,”8 which makes this bill an important step in giving more power back to citizens. In addition, Governor Quinn signed a bill entitled “Illinois’ Jobs Now!” in July 2009, to help encourage economic growth.9 In the midst of widespread citizen disappointment, these developments illustrate a promising effort to help regenerate active citizenship in Illinois.

What Motivates Illinoisans to Become More Engaged? • Endnotes

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