The entitlement to participate in selecting leaders and making decisions within a group or community is a fundamental aspect of civic engagement. For younger individuals, understanding this concept can be simplified by explaining it as the opportunity to choose who represents them, similar to voting for a class president or deciding on a group activity. An example is when students in a school vote for their favorite book during reading week; each students choice contributes to the final decision.
Access to this civic participation is crucial because it empowers individuals to have a voice in matters that affect their lives. Historically, struggles for inclusivity have aimed to extend this access to all members of society, regardless of background. This empowerment helps foster a sense of responsibility and encourages active involvement in shaping the future.