Basic Requirements for Good Citizenship

I’m continually amazed at the lack of knowledge in our society regarding civics.  Over the course of the past year, I have had the privilege of teaching an introductory course on government at the college level.  While a few of my students come into class with a sound background in American government, many more seem to be lacking even the most rudimentary understanding of the way our country operates.  What’s more, it seems that a love and appreciation for the freedoms we possess and the subsequent duty by every person to sustain those values is fading. 

 I don’t want to place the blame solely on the younger generation for not fully engaging as citizens of this republic.  I meet men and women of every generation and demographic who are completely disengaged from the process.  Let me state emphatically that my expectations are not unreasonable.  I certainly don’t expect everyone to possess the same degree of political geek-ery that I do.  Nevertheless, there are a few basic requirements inherent in being a good citizen of this fine country we live in.

1.  Register to Vote

 Simply put, you cannot make your voice heard if you do not show up on Election Day.  Some may take the cynic’s view and proclaim that all politicians are cheats, swindlers, etc. so a vote doesn’t make a difference in the end.  I disagree with that opinion on the basis that it paints a large number of good public servants with that brush.  Those running for public office should be judged one at a time on the merits they present to the electorate.  If, you do have a Hobson ’s choice at the ballot box, I suggest it may be because not enough good people are involved in holding their candidates accountable. 

2.  Vote More Than Once Every Four Years

 The majority of people registered to vote only show up in years in which the president is on the ballot.  It is such a shame.  While I grant you that the presidential election is very important, in my opinion, it is not nearly as important as your local and state elections.  It is these offices which impact your daily life more than any other.  These offices control how your tax dollars are allocated, how your businesses are regulated, how your schools are governed, and so forth. 

3.  Read the News

 You cannot hold your government officials accountable if you are not aware of what is going on in your community, state, and nation.  I recommend you find a few good news websites and check them daily, if possible.  Notice I said “read the news” and not “read the opinions.”  While it is certainly important to read what others think about the important events of the day, I caution the consumer of news to seek out material that is not opinion masquerading as news. 

4.  Know Who Represents You

 You can’t petition the government if you do not know who your representatives are.  Most people know their representatives in the halls of Congress.  Do you know who represents you in the state house and senate?  Do you know your city councilor and county commissioner?  Do you know your school board member?  These people are your servants.  Find out who they are and don’t hesitate to contact them should the need arise. 

5.  Know How Your Government Works

 Because governments are large, complex entities, most average citizens won’t come close to understanding some of the minute intricacies associated with them.  I think this is why many people get confused and decide it’s not worth the effort to comprehend how laws, ordinances, etc. get passed.  Nevertheless, it is important to have a basic understanding of how policies and laws are made.  This information is vital so that you can be sure your government is operating in a transparent, efficient manner.  Start out by learning how a bill goes through Congress and the state house from introduction to its approval or veto.  Next, spend some time learning how ordinances are passed on your city council.  Finally, it is a good idea to understand how your local school board passes new policies. 

 By following these five simple steps, you will make a lasting contribution to your country and ensure the torch of freedom is passed from one generation to the next.