American democracy is rooted in the principles of liberty, equality, and justice. Election Day is a cornerstone of this democracy, a day when citizens across the country exercise their right to vote and help shape the future of the nation. This day captures one of the most important principles of democracy – the belief that government should be responsive to the will of its people.
Despite its foundational principles, they have not always been the reality for all Americans. Many groups have been excluded from the democratic process and denied the right to vote. It has taken decades for our democracy to expand, extending voting rights to people of color, women, and younger citizens. The ability of the nation to adapt, address inequalities, and include more voices speaks to the enduring strength of this democracy.
Voting is only one part of the democratic process, however. Civic engagement also includes engaging in activities that hold elected officials accountable and push for change on issues that matter to communities. This can mean attending public meetings, joining protests to advocate for justice or policy reform, and writing to elected representatives. Citizens can engage as well by organizing grassroots campaigns, raising awareness on social media, or volunteering for causes important to them. Running for office – whether local, state, or national – is another option for those who want to take on a more direct role.
A healthy democracy also requires informed and active citizens. Check out our Elections & Voting guide for links to numerous resources to help you stay informed. Take advantage of our databases like US Newsstream and the New York Times Digital Edition for access to news. Finally, check out our Democracy book display on the main floor of the Library.