(JustPatriots.com) – “We the People” isn’t just a poetic phrase designed to motivate Americans. The Constitution was written with the will of the people in mind, but also with the idea that the people would be involved. In today’s fast-paced world, that can be a challenge, but there are several ways any American can perform their civic duty, even if only for a few minutes a day.
Children
Children don’t know the ins and outs of government, but they can still do things to be a good citizen. It’s about more than just raising good children, too. Sometimes, adults who don’t behave very well can see a child doing the right thing and be inspired to put forth a little more effort of their own. Children can do any number of activities below, and more.
- Celebrate civic holidays
- Learn responsibility and pride by performing helpful tasks at home
- Thank or even salute veterans
- Volunteer for local activities
- Learn about different cultures and how to respect them
- Treat everyone well, regardless of race, nationality, religion, or gender
- Encourage peers rather than bully them
Teens
The teenage years are largely guided by peer interaction and approval. This is also a time when younger people become more interested in adulthood and what it might entail. Getting started on a solid civic path as a teen by doing any number of activities listed here and any you might think of, is a good way to start on a path to being a civic-minded adult.
- Read and discuss the Constitution and other historical and legal documents. (It may help to start locally and digest one small part before moving on to the next)
- Attend local and community meetings
- Help register people to vote and register early when/where possible
- Learn about local issues
- Select a local issue and create a group with a plan to do something about it
- Volunteer in the community
- Be especially respectful to the elderly and help out when possible
- Run for a position in school government
- Join a political club
- Lead by example
- Be a good neighbor
- Contact local leaders to discuss local issues
Adults
No American has more civic responsibility than an adult. It’s not just about voting, either, but looking out for those who are most vulnerable and helping out when possible. Adults set the tone for the younger generation to follow. That means leading by example and sometimes, doing more than your share. Americans can support their country by supporting their communities, even online communities. Here are some tips to get started:
- Volunteer to help at schools or hospitals
- Register to vote
- Stay informed on local issues
- Avoid media bias by watching hearings, reading executive orders, researching the history and votes of candidates, participating when new governmental items request public opinions
- Vote
- Run for office
- Volunteer to help at the polls
- Join a campaign
- Connect with others and spread vital facts, not rumors
- Be a good neighbor and help out where you can
- Keep a protective eye on the children around you
- Report abuse when it’s suspected
- Review historical documents
- Know your rights
- Help others understand their rights
- Come up with and implement solutions for local problems
- Reach out to political leaders to discuss issues
- Go over the Bill of Rights and consider discussing them with a younger person or assessing whether you infringe upon them yourself.
Business Owners
Business owners are in a unique position to make it hard or easy for their employees to participate in civic issues. Using integrity in business dealings is just the start. There may be times when more effort is required.
- Give time off to vote
- Encourage participation in jury duty
- Offer assistance getting to the polls if needed
- Encourage discussion on topics based on facts, but discourage hostility and rumors
- When it comes to laws and benefits, consider employees as much as the business
- Offer child-care solutions and leave room for parenting responsibilities
- Run for office
- Offer discounts or special items when customers show proof of voting
- See employees and customers through tolerant and accepting eyes
- Mentor a child or young adult
- Offer scholarships
- Offer extra considerations and benefits to veterans
It’s not hard to be civic-minded. But it’s a responsibility all Americans should take seriously. Those who are elected to positions of power work for the people, not the other way around. Keep that in mind when going to polls and addressing issues. And, lead by example as much as possible.
Copyright 2020, JustPatriots.com
