In medieval Europe, when peasants felt oppressed, they often had no choice but to express their outrage with pitchforks and torches. Lacking rights or a voice in governance, their protests sometimes erupted into destructive violence.
Today, as citizens in a democracy, we have the right to express our grievances and the agency to effect change without resorting to such destructive tactics. Yet, we see modern versions of the pitchfork—coercive online rants, misinformation, reputation destruction, public shaming, and even violence—erupting when frustrations boil over.
Rising harassment and abuse of local officials and staff, coupled with an entrenched "us vs. them" mentality, are eroding our ability to work together for the common good. This toxic environment undermines our communities, making it harder to solve problems and meet needs collaboratively.
A recent U.S. report shows that 40% of elected officials are reconsidering running for re-election due to the increasing abuse and hostility they face. An equal number avoid interacting with citizens or addressing contentious (but critical) issues out of concern for their safety.
This isn't just an inconvenience; it's a threat to local democracy. If we continue to drive dedicated individuals out of public service, we weaken our democratic institutions and compromise effective governance and service delivery.
The urgency here cannot be overstated. We need constructive civic engagement to keep our democracy healthy. It’s time to move beyond reactive, often abusive behaviors when expressing our needs and concerns.
Instead, let’s embrace civility—literally defined (from the Latin) as "conduct becoming of a citizen." Mobs use threats and violence. Citizens take constructive action.
When we engage thoughtfully and respectfully, our local governments are better equipped to respond effectively, leading to real, lasting change.
So, how can we make this shift? How can citizens engage constructively?
Click on the link below for 15 concrete ways citizens can engage constructively with their local government. Share with your friends and family!
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