What is Civic Punks?

Government is not working.

You feel it. I feel it. And when government doesn’t work, people, communities, and the planet suffer.

But here’s the truth: government matters more now than ever.

A good government helps us face big challenges like climate change, rising costs, and unfair systems. It helps protect the environment, support communities, and build a safer, fairer future.

And right now, government is falling short of the moment we’re living in.

This is where Civic Punks come in.

Civic Punks are hopeful rebels, inside and outside government, who know our systems aren’t working the way people and the planet need — and who care enough to speak up, fix what’s broken, and build something better for everyone.

Hi, I’m Derek Alton, a proud Canadian and a wannabe Civic Punk.

For the last 17 years, I’ve been exploring the future of government — as an academic, an activist, a public servant in the Government of Canada, and most recently at Apolitical, where I worked with public servants from all over the world.

I’ve met thinkers, builders, dreamers, and doers across countries and continents. These people are my friends and my community. They inspire me every day, and I believe their work is quietly changing the world — even if most people don’t see it yet.

I’m curious about them. I want to learn from them.

So I’m traveling around the world to find Civic Punks face to face — to see what they’re building, what they’re trying, what gives them hope, and how they’re helping shape a better future.

This channel is where I share that journey.

Here, you’ll find short videos, travel diaries, and simple explanations that cut through the jargon and show what the future of government could look like. This isn’t “Government 101.”

It’s a guide to what government needs to become — for people, for communities, and for the planet.

You’ll meet the people fixing what’s broken and building what comes next. And you’ll see why this moment matters so much.

But this isn’t just my journey.

It’s our journey.

Come with me — join the conversation, ask questions, share ideas, and help shape where this goes.

You can do that by liking, subscribing, sharing with a friend, or just reaching out to derekalton@civicpunks.com or on Linkedin.

Welcome to Civic Punks.

Let’s explore the future of government — and help build something better, together.