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Joint Resolution on Civic Engagement and Service
2026 GENERAL SESSION
STATE OF UTAH
Chief Sponsor: Heidi Balderree
House Sponsor: Nelson T. Abbott
LONG TITLE
General Description:
This resolution supports and encourages the practices of civic participation, civil discourse,
and constructive dialogue.
Highlighted Provisions:
This resolution:
acknowledges the fundamental rights of free speech, peaceful assembly, and petitioning
of government;
supports civil discourse and civic participation;
encourages community building and civil dialogue amongst Utah citizens;
recognizes the first Friday in September as Utah Civic Engagement and Service Day; and
encourages activities on Utah Civic Engagement and Service Day to promote civic
responsibility and community service.
Money Appropriated in this Bill:
None
Other Special Clauses:
None
Be it resolved by the Legislature of the state of Utah:
WHEREAS, the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, and Article 1,
and Sections 1 and 15 of the Utah Constitution guarantee the fundamental rights of free
speech, peaceful assembly, and petitioning the government;
WHEREAS, a free and self-governing society depends upon the ability of citizens to be
able to express differing views openly, listen respectfully to one another, and engage in
good-faith dialogue across political, cultural, and ideological differences;
WHEREAS, civil discourse does not require agreement, but rather a shared commitment to
reasoned discussion, mutual respect, and the recognition of the inherent dignity of all persons;
WHEREAS, history demonstrates that progress in Utah, the nation, and the world has often
arisen from principled disagreement pursued through peaceful debate, civic participation, and
democratic processes;
WHEREAS, the erosion of civil discourse through intimidation, dehumanization, or the
silencing of lawful speech undermines public trust, weakens democratic institutions, and
discourages civic participation; and
WHEREAS, civic education and service provide valuable opportunities to cultivate habits
of citizenship, such as compromise, cooperation, and respect for constitutional freedoms:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah supports
and encourages practices to promote community building and civil dialogue amongst Utah
citizens.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah recognizes the first
Friday in September as Utah Civic Engagement and Service Day, to encourage Utahns to
reflect upon their shared civic responsibilities, participate in community service, and engage
constructively with others.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah encourages
institutions, including state agencies, local government, educational institutions, and nonprofit
organizations to organize or participate in Utah Civic Engagement and Service Day activities.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah encourages
activities on Utah Civic Engagement and Service Day that include:
(a) community service projects addressing local needs;
(b) forums for civil dialogue and community conversations;
(c) voter registration and civic education activities;
(d) neighborhood improvement and beautification projects;
(e) charitable drives and volunteer activities;
(f) educational programs about democratic processes and civic responsibility;
(g) intergenerational service projects connecting youth and seniors; and
(h) recognition of outstanding community volunteers and civic leaders.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah encourages the
State Board of Education to partner with Local Education Agencies to establish civic
engagement activities as part of curricula on Utah Civic Engagement and Service Day.
1-26-26 3:07 PM