Prioritizing Civics Education
Richard Dreyfuss has spent his life advocating for the democratic process and the core principles of our constitutional republic. His passion for civic engagement began with his early involvement in the creation and launch of L.A. Works—one of the most successful volunteer organizations in the country. Building on that foundation, he went on to establish The Dreyfuss Civics Initiative, which became an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2008.
Since then, Richard has made countless public appearances to raise awareness about the urgent need for civic education in America’s schools. The Initiative’s mission is to promote civic knowledge, foster civic virtue, and highlight the essential role that informed and active citizens play in preserving our democracy.
We invite you to explore our News page to see highlights from Richard’s past speaking engagements and advocacy efforts, and to learn more about why a return to robust civics education is vital to the future of our nation.
"America has been known as a political miracle, and is now the country to be emulated for its freedoms, and the only ones who don't know that are our children because we don't teach it anymore." ~ Richard Dreyfuss
Who We Are
The Dreyfuss Civics Initiative is a non-profit, non-partisan organization committed to revitalizing civics education in America’s public schools. Founded on the belief that a healthy democracy depends on an informed and engaged citizenry, the Initiative ensures that young people understand not only how their government functions, but also their role and responsibility within it.
By promoting the teaching of civics as a core part of public education, the organization aims to empower future generations with the knowledge, critical thinking skills, and sense of duty needed to participate thoughtfully in civic life and preserve the principles of American democracy.
A book by Richard Dreyfuss
One Thought Scares Me...
In this impassioned and provocative book, Academy Award-winning actor and lifelong civics advocate Richard Dreyfuss issues a wake-up call to America. One Thought Scares Me challenges readers to confront a hard truth: the systematic removal of civics education from our schools has left generations unequipped to understand—and protect—our democracy. Drawing on personal insight, historical context, and fierce patriotism, Dreyfuss offers not just a warning, but a roadmap for restoring civic understanding before it’s too late.
_.png)
In a powerful and unexpected meeting of minds, Richard Dreyfuss sat down with Glenn Beck for a candid conversation about America, democracy, and the urgent need for civics education. During the discussion, Dreyfuss shared insights from his book, One Thought Scares Me, and emphasized a core belief: that a republic cannot survive without citizens who understand how it works. The conversation was a striking reminder that restoring civics education isn’t a partisan issue—it’s an American one.