What is a civic duty of a US Citizen?

Voting is considered a fundamental civic duty of a U.S. citizen because it is a key mechanism by which citizens participate in the democratic process. It allows individuals to have a direct say in how their government is run, the laws that are enacted, and who represents them at various levels of government. By voting, citizens fulfill their responsibility to contribute to the civic life of their community and nation, ensuring that their views and interests are considered in governance.

While visiting national parks, traveling abroad, and joining a sports team can all be part of American life and culture, they are not regarded as civic duties. Civic duties specifically relate to responsibilities that citizens have towards their society and government, with voting being one of the most critical aspects of civic engagement. Engaging in votes is essential for a functioning democracy, as it reflects the will of the people, helps to hold elected officials accountable, and influences public policy.