WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION

Welcome to "Connections: You, Your Courts, Your Democracy," the civics and outreach site of the federal courts of the Sixth Circuit. Civics is the study of the rights and duties of citizens and of the workings of government. Our goal for this site is to make it easier for you to learn about the role of the federal courts in the democracy we all share, as well as the role of every citizen in the operation of the courts. We also hope it helps you connect with your federal courts on matters of civics education.
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Welcome Video from Judge R. Guy Cole, Jr.

 

NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

You’re Not The Boss Of Me!! The Chief Judge In The Federal Judicial System

In recent months there has been much public discussion regarding the federal courts, especially the United States Supreme Court.  Much of the discussion has been about controversial decisions, ethical rules, and judicial temperament.  Sometimes underlying these discussions are common misperceptions about the roles and responsibilities of federal chief judges and of the Chief Justice of the United States.  

THE CHIEF JUDGE IS NOT THE “BOSS.”

Naturalization Ceremony at Cheviot Elementary School in Cincinnati

On May 9, Cheviot Elementary School in Cincinnati hosted a naturalization ceremony presided over by the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio.
 
Students at the school organized the entire event and chose which songs to sing and what poems to read during the ceremony.
 
United States Chief Bankruptcy Judge Beth A. Buchanan presided over the ceremony.
 

Upper Arlington students watch, participate in Naturalization Ceremony

https://www.ohsd.uscourts.gov/upper-arlington-students-watch-participate-naturalization-ceremony

Students meet Judges, participate in mock trial at Columbus Courthouse

https://www.ohsd.uscourts.gov/students-meet-judges-participate-mock-trial-columbus-courthouse

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DISTANCE LEARNING RESOURCES

Distance Learning Resources

For teachers, homeschoolers, parents, and other adults who work with high school students, the federal courts’ Law Day resources are designed for the distance learning space to engage students in thoughtful discussion on the fundamentals of a society based on the rule of law. More...

In communities forced to quarantine because of the coronavirus (COVID-19), social studies teachers are venturing into the distance learning space and parents are seeking ways to keep homebound teenagers constructively occupied. More...

Civics Education

Civics Education

Citizens' understanding of the fundamentals of civic rights and responsibilities of individuals and the history and functions of our government, including the role of the courts, helps to strengthen our democracy and the rule of law.
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Courthouse Visits

Civics Education

We encourage school groups and community organizations to visit our courthouses to learn firsthand about the work of the court from the judges and staff of the courts. Listen to our judges discuss their vital role in our government.
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Civics Ceremonies

Civics Education

At the recommendation of the Sixth Circuit Civics and Outreach Committee that all district courts in the circuit establish Civics and Outreach committees, the Eastern District of Tennessee established its Civics and Outreach Committee.
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Court Shorts

Civics Education

Video series explaining the United States Court system.
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