Democracy Conversation Project

We need to refocus on empathy and stop the apathy. Voting means getting involved!!

To build collaboration in your community – to bridge divides & find your power & in your collective belief to improve quality of life for all people.

It allows me to exercise my power of choice as a citizen. People fought arduously for me to have that right.

Helping our neighbors and community because we want to – not because we have to – looking for a benefit. Good citizen truly believes in the good of mankind and acts on it.

Voting gives you a voice. It is essential to civic engagement. While it is not your whole voice, it is an integral part of it.

Democratic norms and rights are under attack. We need to work to restore trust in key institutions (media, government, universities, the civic sector) that authoritarian forces are seeking to undermine. Concerted, united action is essential to push back against these forces and live up to the ideals of our nation.

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

To be intimately engaged with local community governance, sustainability and small “d” democracy.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

Use your voice

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

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.

Being respectful. Caring-about people and the community. Being fair and balanced while being expressive about our views. Refraining from violence while standing up and speaking out against those things that are against letting the people decide.

Well informed and engaged in community, provide service/time in support of common good, listening to lead