A couple of thoughts for the day:
“I begin to feel like most Americans don’t understand the First Amendment, don’t understand the idea of freedom of speech, and don’t understand that it’s the responsibility of the citizen to speak out.”
– Roger Ebert
“If the freedom of speech is taken away then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter.”
– George Washington
It’s important that we, as citizens, stay aware of what’s going on in our communities, our school districts, our township, our county, our region and our state. If we have concerns or questions, we must contact our local government officials and leaders. It lets them know what the public (their constituency) wants and thinks. In turn, it makes citizens feel they are partners in government.
There are many good ways to express your opinion:
• Write, email or phone the appropriate elected official or office holder. If it’s a big issue, contact your state or U.S. legislators. Offer a reasoned list of facts and arguments to support your position. Don’t resort to personal attacks.
• Ask if you can meet in person with the official/office holder or group to discuss your concerns.
* Write a letter to the editor. (You might want to check first if the publication has any guidelines for submitting letters.) Aim to provide a thoughtful, civil, persuasive argument.
• Attend public meetings. Your presence is a powerful way to show the depth of your concern about an issue.
• Offer to volunteer for committees, task forces, boards, etc.
• Start a website, Facebook page or blog 
… or comment on one that already exists.
• Vote! Don’t underestimate the power of the ballot box
• “Never, never, never give up.” – Winston Churchill
