The signs have been showing for years. Democracy is on the decline, both here in the United States and worldwide. In fact, Reuters reports that half of the world’s countries are experiencing democratic declines.
Similar is true in the US as well, with countless people losing faith in institutions and some actively seeking to restrict the voting rights of groups of people. If that has you concerned, here are ten ways you can act to defend democracy.
Knowing The Warning Signs
A key first step is the ability to identify warning signs. Is what you’re seeing merely a genuine disagreement, or is it an authoritarian behavior?
They’re two extremes, to be sure, but you need to be able to differentiate the two. If it’s the former, don’t demonize the person. Rather, seek to understand.
If it’s the latter, it may be concerning.
Vote
Your vote is your voice. If you’re not voting, you’re removing yourself from the chorus.
Don’t only vote in presidential elections. Make your voice heard in the midterms, as well as local elections.
Involve Yourself Locally
Yes, the national news is full of concerning things meant to scare us. However, where democracy really plays itself out is on the local level.
School reform happens on that level. Decisions to ban books happen on that level. Far more can happen locally.
Involve yourself because it may directly impact you.
Support Institutions
Institutions are important. Embrace and support the ones that matter to you most.
Institutions can also be where people connect. This ranges from your local library to schools.
Inform Yourself
Information is essential in supporting and defending a democracy. It’s important to know the facts, both comfortable and uncomfortable ones.
When you go to the voting booth, inform yourself of the candidates. This helps ensure you vote for someone you support and will promote democracy.
Give Money
Many institutions depend on financial support. The time you volunteer is important, too, but they need money.
Find an issue that’s important to you, and give at whatever level you’re able.
Don’t Spread Fake News
The 45th President coined the term “fake news”, but it can be a real thing. In an age where more and more people get their news via social media, it’s vital to spread the truth – not lies.
Vet whatever you read against a reliable source and do your best to avoid spreading fake news.
Keep Hope
Hope is an important virtue to have, especially in a democracy. In fact, some argue that democracy depends on it.
We all live together, so keeping the faith is incredibly important to work towards together.
Respect One Another
While it may seem difficult to do in today’s climate, respecting one another is vital to protecting a democracy. Demonizing people we disagree with only furthers problems.
We all have value as people. And we all have to live together. Finding common ground may not always be possible politically, but it is important to respect one another.
That can lead to understanding and, when possible, compromise for the good of all.
Protest
Protest doesn’t have to be violent. In fact, it can be quite peaceful. The key is to show up and make your voice heard.
This can be done physically. It can also be done financially by giving to groups you support.
Make your voice heard. No one can take it from you.
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I’m John Schmoll, a former stockbroker, MBA-grad, published finance writer, and founder of Frugal Rules.
As a veteran of the financial services industry, I’ve worked as a mutual fund administrator, banker, and stockbroker and was Series 7 and 63-licensed, but I left all that behind in 2012 to help people learn how to manage their money.
My goal is to help you gain the knowledge you need to become financially independent with personally-tested financial tools and money-saving solutions.
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