First of all, for the nitpickers out there, look up the definitions for democracy and republic before you jump on me with the “it’s a representative republic” nonsense. That said, I will use the term democracy throughout this post.
I’m not sure when it started–the reality of losing our democracy in the U.S.–but anyone paying attention knows how fragile democracy can be. The United States is divided politically, and the possibility of a “… government of the people, by the people, for the people…” (Lincoln, Gettysburg Address) disappearing is not a simple thought experiment.
With our democratic way of life threatened, I’ll offer three ways we can protect it:
- Vote. Free and fair elections are a hallmark of a democracy. A record number of eligible voters turned out for the 2020 election, 62.8%. (Pew, Turnout.) Seriously? 62.8% places the U.S. behind thirty countries in the developed world. Electing the leaders that represent you, passing laws, and choosing how your local government spends your money is easy. If you think that your one vote doesn’t matter, it does.
- Get involved. I admit that until this year, I have never done the hard work for a candidate I supported. I was initially nervous because the candidate I support is a Democrat, and I live in a very Republican county. Surprisingly, I haven’t run into contentious conversations, and the experience has been enriching. The candidate is still a long shot at winning, but he never stood a chance without thousands of volunteers knocking on doors, calling folks, and mailing letters.
- Let your representatives know your opinion. Call or write your representatives and tell them about the issues that concern you and why. You’ll likely speak with a staffer, but politicians will pay attention if enough constituents express their opinions. If your representatives aren’t listening, organize a peaceful protest, a right afforded by the First Amendment to the Constitution.
As I write this post, we are less than a week away from the 2022 midterm election. I’m hoping there will be another record-breaking turnout, but early voting in some states is down. So, please take step one to heart and vote!
https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2022/11/01/turnout-in-u-s-has-soared-in-recent-elections-but-by-some-measures-still-trails-that-of-many-other-countries/