Participatory Democracy. So what do we do now? Many people ask this question when responding to the unacceptable policies that Republicans are putting forth.
The answer is: We do more of what we’re doing now.
For too long, too many of us have not done our part to engage in participatory democracy. Voting is not enough, but you must vote.
Donald Trump is a symptom of a problem. The problem is we have not engaged in our democracy.
Participatory Democracy
Participatory democracy is a model of democracy in which citizens have the power to make decisions. Not just through elected representatives.
It involves people taking an active role in formulating policies and making decisions that affect their lives.
This can be seen in practices like attending local meetings in your state, city, or community. Whether in-person or online.
It’s picking something that you’re passionate about. Then, get behind an organization that pursues that same passion—participating by financial contribution or doing the work.
Work like phone banking, writing letters, contacting representatives, voicing your opinion, or being involved with protests. There are so many ways to get involved.
The best way to start is to pick something and start researching how to get involved.
The Many Are More Powerful Than The Money
We don’t have to succumb to the Oligarchs in the room trying to run the show. The many are more powerful than the money.
When we get involved and get others involved, we shape the society we live in.
This was evidenced in recent elections in key states on November 7, 2023.
We must bring diverse groups of people together because we all have unique experiences and perspectives.
It is bringing people together to engage in dialogue and discourse. All while being civil to one another. The outcome of that will always be better.
If you didn’t believe that, you wouldn’t participate in the community building you already do today. You and I are building communities daily, whether we know it or not.
We must be kind, decent, fierce, and credible in our beliefs. There doesn’t need to be anger, abuse, or bitterness.
We have to create forums and spaces where we meet people where they are.
For those of us engaged in democracy, another one of our citizens is not involved. They’re waiting for people like you and me to show them that others exist in this participatory democracy. And there always are.