There is something a foot in the Mid-Ohio Valley. People in Washington and Wood County are turning out for Democracy. Four members of Living Democracy: Engaging Citizens, a local citizens group, just finished teaching a four-week ILR (Learning in Retirement) class with 55 community members involved in learning about how the Constitution was written, how it has evolved and grown and what is happening to our Constitution today.

Our hope is that these 55 citizens will go out and talk to family, friends and neighbors about the important principles in our Constitution; popular sovereignty (rule by the people), the three branches (legislative, Executive and Judicial) providing vital checks and balances and separation of powers, limited government (government having only the power given in the Constitution and Individual Rights (Bill of Rights starting with Amendment 1 ( freedom of speech, religion, assembly and press) and on to Amendment 10 (powers not in the Constitution are given to the states and the people).

Our Constitution begins with three important words, “We the People” and in a democracy (democratic republic) it is up to the people to be involved and communicate with their representatives. A democracy cannot run on autopilot or be self-driving. Spread the word! To keep our “freedom and liberty for all”, the people must read, listen and vote, talk, share and vote, know who will represent your values and vote!

If your Congress people are not representing your values, write or call them. If you have an issue to share, attend a rally, or join a group of like-minded people to discuss concerns. If you want to know more about the local candidates and issues on the November ballot, then attend the Living Democracy: Engaging Citizens Candidate Forum Wednesday, Oct. 22 starting at 6:30 in the Marietta High School Auditorium. Early voting is happening now at your Board of Election and Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4. The future of the Constitution is in our hands. Use It or Lose It!