Stamped proudly on official documents, treaties, currency and the like, the Great Seal of the United States of America includes a bald eagle holding 13 arrows in one talon and an olive branch in the other. The motto “e pluribus unum” -out of many, one – is displayed on a banner held tightly in its beak; symbolic of a national commitment toward inclusion, unity of purpose and a sense of national pride beyond political and regional differences. This has inspired all residents to bond together even under trying circumstances of prejudice and inequality.
When crisis has threatened the ideals of democracy, we as a people, have responded. Our republic is patterned on the idea of respect and celebration of differences while adhering to an overriding sentiment of national unity. In the heat of partisan rhetoric, it is often easy to forget that this concept has brought us to a pinnacle of respect for ourselves and by peoples and nations around the world.
Plenty of examples of disassociation from this idea are currently evident on the national scene these days, but dangers lurk at the local level as well. Calamities and disasters around the world are intensely personal for many with familial or moral and ethical concerns. In our free society, it is proper and encouraged to present, in a civil manner, arguments designed to raise awareness and advocate.
It is, however, important to understand that the role of local government is primarily to address direct and indirect impacts on its territory and citizens. Issues not in the published agenda can be addressed as public comments. If a large group of attendees are advocating a particular position, public comments may have greater impact if a few speakers present the case, asking those in agreement and attendance to stand and be recognized. When scores of people ask to speak with identical messages, limited in time, redundancy dulls the message. Is it better to prepare an argument in two or three, minute segments or 20 or 30 one minute comments?
As primary elections have come and gone, candidates are already sharpening their knives for the general election fray. Historically, rough and coarse contests, are not unusual but hopefully, as canididates jockey for position in a variety of races in November, candidate campaigns will remain civil and substantive.
Tri-City Voice will continue its policy. To focus on local news and election information. This will assist an informed electorate to decide who should represent them. All eligible voters should take part in every election to demonstrate their belief in the inalienable right to vote; to make their voice heard.
We have seen in past elections where a single vote can make a difference. When elected representatives put their name on a ballot, the least we can do is give them an honest opinion of whether we approve of their actions and support them or not.
As city councils and county supervisors consider significant problems of traffic, housing, homelessness, environment, economic conditions and infrastructure, take time to examine these issues and prepare tough questions for candidates. Let them know there is no free ride either through party politics or voter disinterest. We have too many politicians who assume the electorate will automatically rubber stamp their candidacy without much scrutiny.
E pluribus unum is not just a motto. It should guide our sense of responsibility when faced with decisions that allow representation that truly reflects voter attitudes. Dissatisfaction with the system can be disheartening, but without active participation that system will quickly devolve into an autocratic morass. Our communities and neighborhoods depend on activism, whether through volunteerism, attention to local politics or simply voting when the opportunity presents itself.
Our cities are an embodiment of E Pluribus Unum. Tri-City Voice will keep you informed, but the rest is up to you!