This week the late Russian opposition leader, lawyer, and anti-corruption activist, Alexei Navalny's book, Patriot, was released. It got me thinking about how he saw democracy. Navalny consistently advocated for the idea that democracy is not a given, but something that must be actively fought for and protected. For him, the right to vote and to express one’s political beliefs without fear of retaliation was not just a matter of principle, but a core component of a free society. Navalny so often highlighted how the erosion of democratic norms, such as free elections and the rule of law, allows for unchecked power, corruption, and authoritarian control.
As citizens, we hold more power than we seem to realize. We are not just individuals living separate lives, but part of a collective community bound by shared values, responsibilities, and hopes for the future. At the core of this relationship between citizens and their country is the duty to participate in its democratic processes. Among these, the most fundamental and impactful responsibility is voting.
Voting is not just a right—it is a vital responsibility that connects each of us to the broader fabric of society. In casting a ballot, we are not only expressing our opinions but also honoring the struggles of those who fought and sacrificed for our ability to have a voice. Each vote is an act of stewardship, helping to guide the direction of policies that affect education, health care, jobs, social justice, and the environment. To abstain from voting is to forfeit the opportunity to influence these outcomes, leaving the course of the nation’s future in the hands of others.
Our responsibility doesn’t end at the voting booth. As citizens, we must also engage with our communities, listen to diverse perspectives, and build a sense of shared purpose. Every citizen has a stake in the well-being of all their fellow citizens. From promoting social justice to supporting economic equity, we must take active steps to ensure that no one is left behind. This begins with educating ourselves about the issues that matter, understanding the struggles of others, and working collaboratively to build a better society. It is a sacred time to consider our values and the values of those we want to serve on our behalf.
As we move forward, let us remember that our civic duty, no matter where we are in the world, is not only to vote but also to remain vigilant in our responsibilities to one another. Through active participation, we can uphold the ideals of democracy and work toward the shared dream of a just, inclusive, and equitable society. Our future depends on the choices we make today, and those choices begin with the power of one.
With warm regards,
Marilyn Turkovich.
Resources:
Faith in Elections Playbook by Interfaith America
