The Encampment for Citizenship: An Experience in Participatory Democracy

Anne Klaeysen

Leader, New York Society for Ethical Culture

The Encampment for Citizenship, founded in 1946 by Ethical Culture Leader Algernon D. Black and Alice (“Nanny”) Pollitzer, a prominent civic leader, offered an opportunity for young adults of many religious, racial, social and national backgrounds to learn the principles and techniques of citizenship…through lived experience. Black believed that young people could be a positive force in their communities if they developed critical thinking skills, youth activism, leadership qualities, and the courage to break free from stereotypes.  After a decade-long hiatus due to lack of funding, Encampment alumni reunited to offer this experience to a new generation. Learn about their exciting plans for this summer in California.

Anne Klaeysen has served as Leader of the New York Society for Ethical Culture since 2008. She is also the Humanist Chaplain at New York University and Ethical Humanist Religious Life Adviser at Columbia University, and teaches at Union Theological Seminary and the Center for Education at the American Humanist Association. Anne holds a Doctor of Ministry degree in pastoral care and counseling from Hebrew Union College.