Our Civic DutiesSomething we all agree on
Something we all agree on
Overview: The creation of our USA was an experiment in being self governed. We elect people to represent we the people and serve us. Those we elect are public servants, not rulers.
Protections were put into place to protect our democracy …
- Three branches of government – checks and balances. This is to assure one branch of government does not attempt to overstep it bounds or stop working for the will of the people. In such a case, it is the job of the other branches of government to take action and assure ALL branches are working for the people.
- In short – this is a way to protect us from corruption (but it only works if we make it work)
- The Free Press – Before us, citizens of most countries were not allowed to speak badly and surely not ferret out and report on corruption. So in America our Press has power OVER those we elect when it comes to protection and freedom of information. Our press is free to report on corruption and other instances where those we elect are not serving us as they should without fear of being shut down.
- Any attack by the government on our free press is infringing on these protections
- A jury of our peers – Before us, most citizens had to be VERY CAREFUL to not make someone powerful upset or you would be found guilty of something and punished for something you did not do as punishment for, say – reporting on corruption in our government or by a rich and powerful person.
- So in our country, we have jury duty. That is why it is our patriotic duty to do our best when called for Jury duty, even if we hate it. Some parts of formula for democracy aren’t easy or fun, but required.
- And more – There are many other aspects of our founding documents that protect our privacy and freedoms.
To be successful in self governance, it is our job to …
- Watch over those we elect to assure they represent us and do not become corrupt
- Get our information from both sides and have meaningful conversations with those you do not agree with