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New Jerseyans share their stories and ideas about our democracy.

New Jersey's Democracy Conversation

In spring 2022, the New Jersey Council for the Humanities collected hundreds of responses from individuals throughout the state as part of our Democracy Conversation Project. Via both an online form and "ballot boxes" located at partner sites throughout the state, New Jerseyans provided their thoughts in response to four questions about our democracy:

  • What are the main challenges facing democracy today?
  • What do you remember about the first time you voted?
  • What does it mean to be a good citizen?
  • Why is voting important to you?

Responses were accepted in written, audio, video, and visual formats. They were compiled and displayed in interactive format on this page, below. Responses can be filtered by age of the respondent (when provided), as well as keyword tag, question prompt, and response type.

Visualizing Democracy Commissions

In summer 2023, NJCH announced the commissions of two projects aiming to explore, analyze, and visualize the responses in new and interactive ways. Commissions were awarded in response to a call for proposals.

What does it mean to be a good citizen?

The first project, above, is a brief animated video exploring the themes found in responses to the question "What does it mean to be a good citizen?" The video was created by filmmaker April Merl of South Orange.

The Misinformation Newspaper

The second project, above, is a digital newspaper expounding on DCP responses related to misinformation as a challenge to democracy. It was created by artist and educator Melody Marshall of Woodbury.

All Responses

Filters

“Politicians polarizing the citizens”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“It’s our right – appreciate it!”

Anonymous
Why is voting important to you?

“Participate in political process”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Treat all ethnicities with justice and equity and without prejudice”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Have a voice in who represents you”

Anonymous
Why is voting important to you?

“Aware of issues that impact their community”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Propaganda”

Avery
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Ancestral blood has been spilled”

Avery
Why is voting important to you?

“An informed individual”

Avery
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Inequity in education”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Vote to keep people out”

Anonymous
Why is voting important to you?

“Respect each other”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Rampant racial bias”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Be part of the needed change”

Anonymous
Why is voting important to you?

“Willingness to work for community betterment”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Conspiracy ‘theories'”

Mari
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“It is our voice speaking to those in government”

Mari
Why is voting important to you?

“Getting to know the candidates”

Mari
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Failing to listen to the concerns of community members”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“I get to decide who decides for me”

Anonymous
Why is voting important to you?

“Respects the rights and well-being of others”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Corporate control via lobbyist”

Christine and Asala
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Combat patriarchy”

Christine and Asala
Why is voting important to you?

“Team mentality”

Christine and Asala
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Media to spread lies”

Marilyn
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“I have a say in who gets elected”

Marilyn
Why is voting important to you?

“Not afraid to fight against greed and fraud”

Marilyn
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Decisions are not made that benefit all people”

Ave
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Elect people you want”

Ave
Why is voting important to you?

“Involved in elections”

Ave
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Greed, deception, and lies”

Princess
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Allows a community to have a say”

Princess
Why is voting important to you?

“Improving community standards”

Princess
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Voter suppression and intimidation”

Sharonda
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Honors the ancestors who fought and died for the right”

Sharonda
Why is voting important to you?

“Holding elected officials accountable”

Sharonda
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Complacency. Non-involvement.”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“If you don’t vote – decisions happen to you not with you”

Anonymous
Why is voting important to you?

“Put their voice in the room beyond voting’

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Siloed information”

Sam
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“I like to see other people voting”

Sam
Why is voting important to you?

“Listen to other points of view”

Sam
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“The threat of civil war”

Gerald
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“The bedrock of our democracy”

Gerald
Why is voting important to you?

“Educated in the history of our republic”

Gerald
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Race relations”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Many fought for our rights”

Anonymous
Why is voting important to you?

“Community involved”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Climate of voter restriction”

Trenton citizens
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“We need leaders whose morals and values align with ours”

Trenton citizens
Why is voting important to you?

“Knowledgeable of the consequences of their action”

Trenton citizens
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Keep bad actors out of positions”

Trenton citizens
Why is voting important to you?

“Respect and appreciate diversity”

Trenton citizens
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Election lies”

Trenton citizens
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Using our voice as our power”

Trenton citizens
Why is voting important to you?

“Advocating for less fortunate members of your society”

Trenton citizens
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Ensuring the intentions of politicians are good”

Anonymous , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Voting truly does effect the community”

Anonymous , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Wants the best for everyone”

Anonymous , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Capitalism allows the rich too much control over government”

Kalista , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Prevent the people from living in tryanny”

Kalista , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Being welcoming to those joining their community”

Kalista , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Questioning truths”

Anonymous , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Ensure ones country looks out for all of its people”

Anonymous , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Considers the lives of their neighbors”

Anonymous , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“People who question the integrity of election results”

Anonymous , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Make an impact based on your beliefs”

Anonymous , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Proactive in making a positive difference”

Anonymous , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“All of the events happening in our world”

Anonymous , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Participate and share your opinions”

Anonymous , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Participating in your civic responsibilities”

Anonymous , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Clash between opposing opinions”

Anonymous , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Allows the population to make decisions”

Anonymous , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Helpful to other citizens”

Anonymous , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Division has clouded our democracy”

Mackenzie , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“There must be a good and just leader”

Mackenzie , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Helps around the community”

Mackenzie , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“People might have different ideas to what is Democracy”

Anonymous , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Gives a citizen a sense of responsibility”

Anonymous , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Makes a meaningful contribution to society”

Anonymous , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Corruption and inefficiency”

Anonymous , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Allows your voice to be heard”

Anonymous , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Helps others whenever they can”

Anonymous , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Good citizen? Educated citizen!”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Love each other in spite or even because of the differences”

Lena , 24
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

Paula , 50
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Be responsible for your own actions”

Bryan , 37
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“The ’72 Nixon-McGovern election”

Anonymous , 68
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“Our dependence on China”

Nick , 72
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Presidential Executive orders no not convey the full meaning of the original laws”

Lisa , 52
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“So many have bought into the belief that the last election was ‘stolen'”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Your vote counts”

Ivan , 63
Why is voting important to you?

“The majority of politicians are lying to people”

Tommy , 60
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Caring for your community”

Allison , 14
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Afterwards, I felt a sense of pride and liberation”

Lena , 24
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“Legislative stagnation”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Start with the person and the nation will follow”

RS , 48
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“A good citizen is involved in their community”

Rose , 57
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“I have a chance to make a change”

Briana , 19
Why is voting important to you?

“Reagonomics”

Barry , 71
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Overturn Citizens United”

Joseph , 75
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Lower income communities and minorities being underrepresented”

Joseph , 17
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Misinformation”

Lorene , 60
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“The apathy of our young”

Michael , 46
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“It evokes pride in being American”

Michael , 46
Why is voting important to you?

“Para que tudos pueden tener si vos escuchado”

William , 21
Why is voting important to you?

“Dismissing whole communities from voting”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Fake efforts to portray election results as fraudulent”

Molly , 76
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Making a difference”

Emilia , 20
Why is voting important to you?

“Our institutions must remain, strong, honest, and caring”

Becky , 71
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“The Republican Party has gone down a rabbit hole”

Anonymous , 75
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Helpful”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“The ultra-right white ‘Christians.'”

Diane , 72
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“I have seen in swing states how important the voice of a group is”

Amanda , 19
Why is voting important to you?

“White supremacy in office”

Rachel , 40
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“There seems to be an effort towards autocracy”

Anonymous , 80
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Voting is the major achievement of democracy”

Rita , 64
Why is voting important to you?

“Those who want to deny others the right to vote”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“I went and canceled out a racist’s vote”

Anonymous
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“Democracy itself is the challenge”

Ira , 68
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Willing to be violent to follow their leader”

Marv , 77
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Making sure all have a place at the table”

Michael , 46
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“The right for all citizens to speak their truth”

Tom , 68
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“I learned at a young age what it means to be an American”

Michael , 46
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“God given right of being a good citizen”

Linda , 71
Why is voting important to you?

“Things change drastically between parties”

Linda , 71
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“I can’t vote for any of these candidates”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Lack of respect of democracy”

Tess , 40
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Freedom of choice”

Sofi
Why is voting important to you?

Handing paper to person by machine Signing Big Book Closing curtain behind machine Reading instruction info and candidate info

Linda , 71
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“Respect your country”

Linda , 71
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“The Republicans”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Don’t sit on the sidelines”

Anonymous
Why is voting important to you?

“Uneducated voters”

Anonymous , 37
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Tell others to vote and learn about your issues!”

Kevin , 67
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“To support the electorate”

Anonymous
Why is voting important to you?

“The people with money and the Republicans who serve them pose a threat”

Dan , 57
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“You get to visit great places”

Evelyn , 28
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“To ensure social justice protects me”

Jennifer , 50
Why is voting important to you?

“Don Trump”

Brandon , 19
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Power in choosing our government”

Anonymous
Why is voting important to you?

“Apathy is lethal”

Mariah , 37
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“This is a Republic not a Democracy!”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Have respect for the law”

Anonymous , 72
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Creating a functioning democracy”

Susan , 58
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Politicians are owned by corporations”

Eileen , 61
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Hyper partisanship coupled with dishonesty”

Kim , 41
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Our politicians are financed by the health insurance industry”

Maureen , 67
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Minorities are being disenfranchised”

Scott , 65
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Be law abiding”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“We are cancelled if we do not agree with the masses”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Help register new voters”

Maddy , 22
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Threats against free speech”

Sue , 75
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Revere the flag and our country”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Give us a voice”

Mary , 57
Why is voting important to you?

“Republicans”

Kate , 33
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Yes, we fact check”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Being informed about the issues from reliable sources”

Bonnie , 78
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Loyalty towards a party rather than majority’s wellbeing”

Aliya , 60
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Don’t litter”

Dhrauv , 11
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Us vs. them mentalities”

Mannan , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Each candidate has a fair chance of winning”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Giving equal preference to hear what others say”

Sarah , 42
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Leaders inciting or insinuating violence”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Participating in elections”

Ariv , 8
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Help people out”

Holton , 7
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Telling the whole truth”

Mike , 45
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Everyone should be treated equally”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Make sure that the laws being passed are fair to all”

Erin , 16
Why is voting important to you?

“Lack of confidence in the integrity of our voting system”

Joy , 50
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Doing good deeds”

Yoasi , 8
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Be kind and make a change”

Mirelle , 8
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“the enforcement arm”

Kenneth , 33
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Being nice to everyone you meet”

Henry , 9
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Everyone’s opinion counts”

Rulli , 10
Why is voting important to you?

“Donald Trump”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Be kind and take care of animals”

Athen , 8
Why is voting important to you?

“Be respectful”

Emily , 10
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Must have an active role in that government”

Anonymous , 44
Why is voting important to you?

“Pick up garbage for your community”

Sasha , 8
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“False news”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“When was America great?”

Tom , 82
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“make democracy happy”

Idannis
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Voting gives you some voice to speak up”

Antony , 16
Why is voting important to you?

“To have a say in our government”

Cathy , 57
Why is voting important to you?

“Hate of immigrants”

Allison , 65
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Election integrity”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Agendized by shallow and simple-minded citizens and politicians”

James , 21
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Putting the national interests above… identity interests”

James , 21
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“To make the change one believes in”

Ekta , 45
Why is voting important to you?

“Erosion of the idea of public good”

Ekta , 45
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Sense of responsibility”

Ekta , 45
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“Being a part of an equitable and fair society”

Ekta , 45
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Pride and fear”

Marsha , 70
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“Participation”

Marsha , 70
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Voter suppression…funding…misinformation…lack of faith….”

Jean , 67
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“It’s a sermon because we are talking about how we believe”

Michael , 77
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“It is Everest.”

Marci , 64
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Learn from our mistakes and fight for justice”

Theresa , 59
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“An authoritarian party”

Peter , 58
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“I remember my mother helping me to register to vote”

Sherry , 59
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“Wide chasm of civic discourse”

Miriam , 68
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Demagoguery and jingoism”

Linda , 68
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Choosing who governs us”

Mary , 53
Why is voting important to you?

“We need engaged, participatory democracy year round”

Aaron , 30
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Donald Trump and his lies”

Joe , 64
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“The need for participatory democracy in the form that’s direct”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“The polarization of our bipartisan system”

Eve , 25
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Revoke citizen’s united”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“We have a hard time finding common ground”

Ariana , 44
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“They forget to reply to their constituents needs”

Pamela ,
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Moral relativism ends in the chaos of every man for himself”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Rampant anti-Asian racism”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Republicans, especially Trump”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Censorship of opposing or diverging views”

Lisa
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Loss of emotioanalism and pragmatism”

Siddharth , 30
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“We turn inward, harden our own beliefs”

Brian , 59
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“One nation with equal rights”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Inaction by the highest authorities”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“They want to divide Americans”

Kevin , 62
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Ratings prevailed”

James , 79
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Republicans”

Anonymous , 61
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Hate and violence”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Housing for the working poor”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Extreme positioning to activate their base”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Ultra conservative supreme court”

Paul , 74
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“The laws of our society”

Jordan , 35
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Congress gridlock”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Division among political, racial and religious groups”

Esther , 96
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Unless you’re a straight, cisgender, white man your voice is rarely heard”

Michael , 29
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Both parties blame each other”

Syed , 55
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“False info being spread via social media”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Misinformation”

Larry , 62
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Unable to agree on almost anything”

Nancy , 64
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Sanctioning freedom of greed”

Tom , 65
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“First-past-the-post-voting”

Andre , 15
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Trusting stories in the media as a truth or fake”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Ballot security”

Larry
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Narcissism in the general population”

Rachel , 42
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Both parties constantly vetoing and stalling progressive ideals”

Jonathan , 25
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“To dare to enter the debate”

Brian , 76
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Have a voice in determining what our democracy looks like”

Ann Marie , 55
Why is voting important to you?

“Like the way you live? Then vote for Nixon”

Ellen , 70
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Get a good education”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Help the people who are poor”

Ibrahim , 9
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Do as you told your 5 year old”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Empathize with people who have different views”

Steve , 28
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“To be nice”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Care for the people around you”

Violet , 8
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“To respect others”

Miles , 8
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Kind and loving person who would go out of their way for someone else”

Liliana , 9
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Following your responsibilities”

Prech' , 52
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Be informed – engage – vote”

Portia , 67
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Civic engagement”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Your country should be on a list, near the top, of what you value”

Pamela , 81
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“To help your community grow better together”

Barbara , 70
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Being adequately informed on issues facing our democracy”

Brian , 61
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Caring about your country”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Standing up for the disenfranchised”

Teri , 61
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“To choose who will keep our republic thriving”

Pamela , 81
Why is voting important to you?

“Support your neighbors”

Anonymous , 28
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“To be informed about issues facing your community”

Madhura , 55
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Helping others in the smallest of ways can make a huge impact”

Maya , 14
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Don’t be selfish”

Kay , 80
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Treat others the way they want to be treated”

Lloyd , 72
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Being nice to the earth”

Daving , 6
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Respecting laws”

Lisa , 13
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Pay your taxes”

Jean , 67
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“The first time I voted was in 1960 – for John F. Kennedy”

Howard
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“I was happy to see that New York State had a Right to Life party”

Lisa , 60
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“The feeling of awe, solemnity, and excitement”

Barbara , 70
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“I was in 2nd grade and I was voting for the student council”

Adyant , 12
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“He dressed in a suit every time he voted”

Albert , 74
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“I hurried toward the Democrat table and she turned toward the Republican table”

Annie , 63
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“I felt compelled to vote for my parents choice”

Poppy , 18
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“I will vote for the 1st time this November”

Donna , 17
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“No vote = no voice”

Anonymous , 68
Why is voting important to you?

“Every vote matters”

Herb , 68
Why is voting important to you?

“The best way to affect change is to vote”

Quinn , 43
Why is voting important to you?

“Why live in a world you have no say in”

Azirah , 16
Why is voting important to you?

“Politicians, on paper, are supposed to help people”

Michael , 29
Why is voting important to you?

“Even if my side doesn’t succeed, I want to try”

Emma , 37
Why is voting important to you?

“It gives me a voice that my grandmother didn’t have”

Francesca , 87
Why is voting important to you?

“They valued the rule of here and never failed to vote”

Karen , 75
Why is voting important to you?

“It gives me a say”

Anonymous , 75
Why is voting important to you?

“Making your community a better place”

Andrea , 11
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Pays attention and participates”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“environmental agenda”

Wale , 36
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“To give back to the community”

Faith , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Uninformed citizens”

Samriddhi , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Your actions benefit those around you”

Shane , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Many people risked their lives and have died for you to vote”

Ricky , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“To contribute towards the whole”

Yesin , 20
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Obeying the law and paying taxes”

Sean , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Aware of current events”

Eva , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“I can’t vote, I’m an immigrant”

Samriddhi , 18
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“Technology has allowed for ‘group think/echo chamber’ environments to flourish.”

Julius , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“People who will govern my life for the next 4 years”

Samriddhi , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“In 7th grade for my school’s mock election”

Shane , 18
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“A good citizen is aware of the whole story”

Melanie , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“It gets your voice out there”

Gus , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Law abiding person that works hard”

Allan , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Divided nation”

Dhwani , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Being up to date with what is happening in politics”

Erjana , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Polarized views”

Swathi , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Inequalities”

Erjana , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Good people in power”

Dhwani , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Women’s rights and gun rights”

Madeleine , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Being nervous”

Allan , 18
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“To be present in the process of living in democracy”

Erjana , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Caring for your community and environment”

Madeleine , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Voting can impact our laws and very way of life”

Megan , 19
Why is voting important to you?

“To get a say in how the state/nation is run”

Farhana , 18
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“To get Joe out”

James , 77
Why is voting important to you?

“To be as educated as much as you can”

Kyra , 20
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“I was the only person there at the time under 35”

Megan , 19
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“The first time I voted was through the mail-in ballot sheet”

Saoirse , 18
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“The nation is divided”

Tom , 59
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“I remember feeling very insignificant”

Julius , 18
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“Creating a net positive effect on the world”

Julius , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Not littering”

Megan , 19
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Extreme polarization”

Megan , 19
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Corporate greed”

Kara , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“So many people forget the right to vote”

Tamara , 22
Why is voting important to you?

“My opinion matters”

Saoirse , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Vote freely and without scrutiny”

Melanie , 18
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“Provide for the community and obey laws”

Gabrielle , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Those that are trying to silence others opinions”

Shane , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Help out in society and contribute to the community”

Angelina , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“It gives the people a voice”

Yejin , 20
Why is voting important to you?

“Politics will not change people, good people will”

Yejin , 20
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“I want to make my choices and voice heard”

Eva , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Doesn’t represent all the voices”

Eva , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“We should take advantage of that freedom”

Matthew , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Actively participate”

Samriddhi , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Your voice is being heard”

Shane , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“I want my right to a representative in office”

Gabrielle , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Using skills or talents to contribute to society”

Jayden , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“protect democracy”

Kyra , 20
Why is voting important to you?

“Voting is something that has been fought hard for”

Melanie , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“I was a little scared when the curtain closed behind me”

James , 65
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“It allows for people to have their voice heard”

Sharika , 17
Why is voting important to you?

“The lack of unity”

Gabriella , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Getting involved in one’s community”

Swathi , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“I want my voice to be heard”

Julie , 50
Why is voting important to you?

“Supporting our troops”

Rafi , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Following the laws”

Saoirse , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Stand for the ones who need our help

Gus , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Always involved in their community”

Amy , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“White nationalistic fascist conservatives”

Kyra , 20
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Participate in government”

Farhana , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Follow the laws”

Farhana , 18
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Holding people accountable”

Sharika , 17
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Don’t always listen”

Saorise , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Not putting ego to the side”

Gabrielle , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“It means that I have a voice in my community”

Swathi , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Republicans and Democrats are becoming politically polarized”

Gus , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Average Joe cannot afford to live”

Jillian , 44
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Cancel culture”

Rafi , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“It allows me to express my opinion with no judgement”

Gabriella , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Being heard and making an impact”

Amy , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Your voice is heard”

Sharika , 17
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“I’m looking forward to doing so”

Erjana , 18
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“There will still be issues that I don’t feel will or can be solved as a state”

Trista , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Works to make the country better”

Susan , 35
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Lack of diversity in power”

Melanie , 18
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“I can be part of a group”

Maddeine , 18
Why is voting important to you?

“Misinformation or contradictory information”

Sharika , 17
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Have some compassion and empathy!”

Tara , 47
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“listen to the voices of the people”

Mike , 16
Why is voting important to you?

“I rushed to get my paperwork”

Nancy , 23
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“I felt so grown up”

Renee , 50
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“If we lose our right to vote we lose our right to choose”

Maribel , 57
Why is voting important to you?

“follow the rules”

Lavanya , 33
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“it was a thrill”

Michael , 71
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“corruption”

N.
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Careful, planned prejudice”

Evo , 15
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Not being truthful”

Stan , 77
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“The internet is making us childish!”

Anonymous , 40
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Material conditions”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“context”

Amy , 46
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Creeping authoritarianism”

Bill , 83
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“PAC money”

Priyantha , 66
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“two separate worlds”

Christine , 37
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“schools teach biased versions of American history”

Jose , 40
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Donald Trump et al”

Pam , 81
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Individuals who do not work”

A Farmer's Daughter
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“The movement to limit voting”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“we are dependent upon each other”

Krista , 40
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“lies in public space”

Nicole , 72
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“respect for others”

Anonymous , 95
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“dishonesty…censorship”

Marck , 58
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“media not reporting facts”

KTN , 49
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“my opinion/voice is heard”

Amelia , 38
Why is voting important to you?

“far right terrorists”

Isabel , 88
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“democracy won’t survive”

Hossein , 22
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“politicians invested in turning back the times”

Karen , 60
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“I was helping shape the course of our country”

Kasey , 24
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“takes individual responsibility”

Greg , 28
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“I’m seen and heard”

Quincy , 21
Why is voting important to you?

“to help”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“focus on important issues”

Roxanne , 70
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“my vote doesn’t count”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“we all have responsibility”

Barbara , 88
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“actively engage”

Ben , 38
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“magic!”

Anonymous
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“candidates who…represent the interests of all of us”

Patricia , 19
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“contribute to the fabric of democracy”

Claire , 60
Why is voting important to you?

“values of the preamble of the Constitution”

Cheyenne , 32
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“returning land stewardship to my people”

Sophia , 19
Why is voting important to you?

“What we say and how we say it matters”

Eileen , 41
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“active participant”

Anonymous
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“I was bound and determined”

Carol , 58
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“do service”

Maria , 51
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“one party that is totalitarian”

Laura , 62
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“committed to public service”

Ariel , 38
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“every election day is a chance to be thankful”

John , 75
Why is voting important to you?

“thankful to have my voice heard”

Ann Marie , 69
Why is voting important to you?

“a commitment to serve the greater good”

Leslie
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“cynicism”

S. , 35
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“culture of quickness”

Anonymous
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Practicing radical empathy”

Allie , 26
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“The people who make the rules are a panel made up of Democrats and Republicans”

Fred , 71
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“The very rich are taking far more than their ‘share’ just because they can”

Eleanor , 75
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Threats of violence as acceptable methods to accomplish their goals”

Maryann , 67
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Help the elderly people and the community of need”

Mina , 9
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Help the community”

Niya , 9
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“There were party levers”

James , 51
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“Good citizens live according to God”

Anonymous , 62
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Equal educational opportunity…Accessible healthcare…Freedom of speech…”

M , 59
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Misinformation”

Marrin , 30
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“We’ve allowed wealthy people to exert an insane level of power”

Larissa , 56
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“A good citizen prioritizes our interconnectedness over individualism”

Larissa , 56
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“We are increasingly living in a gerontocracy”

Carlos , 20
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“The challenge to each of us to *listen*”

Roberta , 56
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Participating on a local level to ensure the common good”

Carin , 41
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“Keep the powerful in check and ensure they work for the betterment of all Americans”

Elias , 26
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Peeking out at the poll workers”

Gwen , 45
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“A bright future require us to nurture the hope that such a future is possible”

Tyler , 34
What are the main challenges facing democracy today?

“Taking the time to learn about the important policy issues of the day”

Michael , 57
What does it mean to be a good citizen?

“One’s vote was an expression of one’s commitment and beliefs”

Howard , 61
What do you remember about the first time you voted?

“The rights I have today are not givens”

K , 33
Why is voting important to you?

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