I have a dream and I believe you do, too. And although I do not know all the specifics of the dream, I believe it entails more and more citizens exercising random acts of democracy. With increased acts of democracy, comes increased community. Increased community is a dream worth working toward.
What do I mean by random acts of democracy? I mean participation in our socio-political system: learn more about candidates before voting; learn more about policies impacting our community and find out candidates’ stands on those policies; help others learn more about policies and candidates; register someone to vote; encourage someone to vote; celebrate the vote and thank the voter! And once elected, check in on elected representatives and their policies.
This month we have the opportunity to learn more about community policing, a centerpiece of Tim Keller’s 2017 mayoral campaign platform. On Wednesday, May 23, the West Side Democrats host a panel discussion on community policing in our City. We will learn about the program from a member of the Police Advisory Board, an APD commander, and the Keller administration’s Community Policing Councils’ liaison. Join us as we delve into this subject and make ourselves more informed citizens.
We are also hosting a CD1 candidate forum which will feature questions developed by subject matter experts on seven issue areas identified in our Democratic Party of New Mexico platform. See this flyer for details: May 12, 2018 CD1 Candidate Forum.
The informed inclusive democracy we dream of begins here, in our community.
We are building the bridge while crossing it.
Yours in democracy,
Flora