Politically Active

[zyzyly]

I was inspired by my friend greymeowsr,who reminded me that the work is only beginning. Politics isn't something that happens only once every four years--it happens every day. If we want to see positive change in this country, we have to be willing to do the work.

What can we do?

Stay informed. Keep up on the news and write letters to the editor when you don't agree with something. I have a friend who writes all the time, and gets published at least 4-5 times a year. When news organiuzations aren't hard-hitting enough, call them on it. Make them accountable to you.

Follow legislation--know what's being proposed and debated. Call or write your elected officials and let them know what you think. If you have to, be a nuisance.

Participate in your local government. Attend your City Council meetings. Learn the issues that impact your community. Speak up during the public forums and town hall meetings. Run for local elected office if you feel passionate about it, or find someone you believe would do good and convince them to run.

Get to know the candidates who are running. Not in a superficial "sound bite" way, but with substance. Read what they write. Look at their voting records. Follow their political path and see where it is leading.

Vote. Not just in the big elections, but in every election you can. And convince your friends to vote as well.

Don't give up.

Comments

[greymeowsr.livejournal.com]

yes, yes, YES, YES!

Very well said.

yf,
Tom

[worldcomrade.livejournal.com]

Thank you. That's exactly what I needed to hear. I've ripped off your message and posted it (with credit, of course) in [Unknown site tag] because we're kind of sad/anxious today.

[worldcomrade.livejournal.com]

lj tag issues. ;) That's ksprogressives.

[limenal.livejournal.com]

Thanks for this post. Its tone, markedly different from my own post on the subject, is just what I needed today. I should have known to come to your journal for a dose of hope.