Each year, on September 18, communities across the United States come together to celebrate the National Day of Civic Hacking. This day is a unique opportunity for citizens, technologists, designers, and activists to collaborate and use technology as a tool for public good. It’s not just about coding—it’s about harnessing innovation to solve real-world problems and make a tangible impact in our communities.
Why Do We Celebrate National Day of Civic Hacking?
The National Day of Civic Hacking was established to encourage civic engagement, foster collaboration, and bring attention to the power of technology in addressing societal challenges. It aligns passionate individuals and organizations to create solutions for better governance, environmental sustainability, public safety, and more. From brainstorming sessions to hackathons, this day is a call to action for anyone who wants to make a difference.
A Brief History of Civic Hacking
The concept of civic hacking dates back to the early days of open data initiatives in the 21st century. Governments began sharing public data to promote transparency and collaboration. The movement gained traction with events like Code for America’s Hackathons and the establishment of civic tech organizations. Since its inception, this national day has become a symbol of community-driven problem-solving and innovation.
How Is It Observed?
On September 18, cities and towns across the country host events ranging from coding marathons to workshops and public discussions. Participants might work on creating apps for disaster response, improving access to public resources, or finding ways to reduce carbon footprints. It’s a day of creativity and collaboration, with a focus on making technology accessible and impactful for all.
Fun Facts About Civic Hacking
- The term “hacking” in this context refers to building and improving, not breaking or destroying.
- Some of the most impactful civic tech tools, like OpenStreetMap, were born from similar initiatives.
- Many civic hacking events are open to people of all skill levels—no coding experience required!
Get Involved!
Are you ready to make a difference? Here’s how you can participate:
- Find a local event near you or join a virtual session.
- Bring your skills, whether it’s coding, design, or simply a passion for community improvement.
- Collaborate with others to brainstorm and tackle real-world problems.
- Spread the word about the National Day of Civic Hacking on social media using the hashtag #CivicHackingDay.
Let’s come together on September 18, 2025, to build a brighter, more connected future. The power to make a difference starts with you!
