NJ Council for the Humanities

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CNJG Response 27

What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

EPIDEMIC OF LONELINESS & ISOLATION
We need news, info, & education systems that prioritize civil engagement & connection.

FIRST NAME: Simon AGE: 35 TOWN: Bloomfield
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CNJG Response 25

What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

People are avoiding talking to each other & to bring about real changes in our democracy we need to build the relationships that move people from supporting to policies that harm

FIRST NAME: Anonymous AGE: TOWN:
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CNJG Response 24

What do you remember about the first time you voted?

I had recently moved from NJ to Colorado to being my year as a VISTA (Volunteers In Service To America) Volunteer. I voted by mail and was so excited to be voting for Bill Clinton. It was an inspiring time looking forward to change after too many years of Bush/Reagan. Whenever I hear the song “Don’t Stop” by Fleetwood Mac, I remember this time and my first vote for president.

FIRST NAME: Corinne AGE: 56 TOWN: Shrewsbury
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CNJG Response 23

What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

1. We have forgotten that we have a constitution we follow – not a king. We need to live by and focus on the constitution we fought so hard to adopt years ago. 2. Rule of law and limitations – employees of agencies like ICE have completely forgotten they need to operate within the law. 3. Hiring and appointing unqualified leadership – need I say more. 4. Election tampering – support of laws/policies that keep citizens from voting. 5. Social media and fake news- it is hard for ordinary citizens to know what is real and what is fabricated. 6. Americans need to understand what different forms of government exist. Our democracy is dying and people don’t seem to understand what is happening right before their eyes.

FIRST NAME: Wanda AGE: TOWN: East Windsor
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CNJG Response 22

What does it mean to be a good citizen?

Being a good citizen means contributing to your neighborhood/society, for example, voting speaking up, following laws, etc. The first time I voted was in 2008, I voted for Obama! It felt empowering and like I was a part of a huge movement. The main challenge today is understanding of elected roles and citizens believing in the “system.” Residents do not belive that their vote can make a difference. There is little faith in local representatives.

FIRST NAME: Shanikwa AGE: 37 TOWN: Paterson
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CNJG Response 21

What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

The lack of understanding of the role and function of government; lack of engagement as uninvolved citizens and importance of facts and valid fact-questioning and checking information

FIRST NAME: Nancy AGE: 64 TOWN: Chester
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CNJG Response 19

What does it mean to be a good citizen?

1. Vote! (and get informed about the candidates) 2. Don’t just complain about what is, get involved if you feel that strongly!

FIRST NAME: Anonymous AGE: TOWN:
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CNJG Response 18

What does it mean to be a good citizen?

To hold yourself and others – especially the Powers that Be – accountable for honoring the humanitiy and ensuring all citizens – all people – are treated with dignity and respected, and offered equal rights and protections.

FIRST NAME: Kerry AGE: 49 TOWN: Jersey City
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