Democracy Itself

Since 1787 when the US Constitution established our form of government, America’s representative democracy has thrived due to a shared belief in these core principles:

• Valuing the equal opportunity and legal equality of all people, regardless of gender, race or religion
• Protecting individual freedoms, including speech and assembly
• The separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the government
• Living under the rule of law where all persons, institutions and entities are equally accountable

But now, surveys show that some Americans are giving up on democracy as the preferred form of government. Others are tuning out due to apathy and cynicism.

The antidote to this inertia is knowledge. Democracy is much more than a political system. It is a way of life that values the dignity of each individual. Our nation was founded on this ideal and has prospered in higher economic growth, lower poverty rates, and improved health. Now is the time to get the word out.