Community Engagement and Education to Support Democracy

Democracy Readings Reflection

The concepts we have explored thus far in class are relevant to the preservation of democracy. For example, we have discussed the importance of civic engagement and the need for citizens to be informed and active participants in the democratic process. As Longo and Shaffer (2016) point out: “We all have something to contribute” (p. 16). It is also interesting to see the role that education plays in maintaining a democracy: it is really about getting engaged in the process and not taking anything for granted. When citizens are engaged and informed, they are more likely to hold their elected officials accountable and demand that their voices be heard.

A free and independent press is essential in ensuring that citizens have access to accurate information about what is happening in their government. And when special interests are allowed to buy influence, it erodes faith in the democratic process and makes it more difficult for ordinary citizens to have a say in how their government is run. To ensure a healthy democracy, it is essential that all citizens understand these concepts and play an active role in preserving our system of government.

In a healthy democracy, people are able to come together and build consensus around the issues that matter to them. They are also able to hold their government accountable and participate in the democratic process. However, when citizens are unable to build community and achieve consensus, it can have a negative impact on the health of democracy. When people are divided, it becomes difficult for them to work together towards common goals. This can lead to gridlock and paralysis in government, as well as increased polarization and extremism. In extreme cases, it can even lead to violence and bloodshed. Therefore, it is clear that our ability to build community and achieve consensus does have an impact on the overall health of our democracy.