Project Soapbox 2021-2022 - Mikva Challenge

Project Soapbox 2021-22

Every year, teachers around the country use Mikva’s Project Soapbox curriculum to help their students develop and deliver a two-minute persuasive speech answering the prompt: “What is the biggest issue facing your community, why is it important, and what should be done about it?”

The program culminates in a citywide or regional event where young people give their speeches in front of local peers, community, and civic leaders.

For our first events of the season, registration information can be found on the Project Soapbox Illinois and Washington, DC pages.

After the conclusion of regional and citywide events, 12 outstanding students will be invited to speak at the virtual Soapbox Nation Mainstage showcase on June 22, 2022.

Join us in watching and engaging with the powerful speeches of young people from coast to coast. Listen to what youth across the country are getting on their Soapbox about:

Chicago, IL | Washington, DC

Soapbox Nation

Every year, youth speakers from all over the country are invited to share their Soapbox speeches on this national platform – and 12 finalists are chosen for the culminating Soapbox Nation Mainstage showcase

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Thank you to everyone who participated in this election—whether you voted, helped spread the word, or engaged in civic conversations, you played a vital role in our democracy. At Mikva Challenge, we believe in the power of young voices and active citizenship. As we reflect on the election, let’s keep working together to build a just and equitable society where everyone has a voice. The election may be over, but there is plenty of work ahead. #Election2024 #DemocracyIsAVerb #YouthEngagement #MikvaChallenge

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Today, more than 1,900 Chicago high school students from more than 100 schools will serve as election judges, helping make Election Day a success. With the support of Mikva Challenge and the Chicago Board of Elections, these young leaders are gaining a hands-on experience in civic engagement while assisting voters at polling locations across the city.

Youth voices are essential to a healthy democracy. Research from CIRCLE shows young people involved in civic duties are more likely to become lifelong voters and inspire family members to vote. In fact, 98% of past student judges said they intend to vote, with 94% committing to encouraging friends and family to do the same.

#YouthVoice #DemocracyIsAVerb #MikvaChallenge

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