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But he said that we could and should stand up and be heard in our community. We vote for our local government. Show up to every city council, county commission, and school board meetings. Know what’s going on there and make it clear what we want.

This is a pet peeve of mine. This is not directed at you Greeneyes but a general reminder to all. I created a reply that I am certain was way too long then lost the text. The loss of my long winded rant/reply was possibly God sparing everyone my personal frustrations over voting citizens who refuse to participate in open local governmental processes.

In attempt to shorten rant:

Folks proudly proclaim, "Yes, I vote so I've done my civic duty." But that is only kindergarten!
1) attend meetings in all your local jurisdictions. You don't have to attend all meetings but enough to know all issues. They all issue public agendas. If they are trying to make agendas difficult to obtain then you truly need to go to meetings.
2) call or email your elected officials about your concerns. If they avoid calls or fail to reply to emails, go to their office and talk.
3) Do NOT expect elected officials to know about local problems is you don't notify them. They aren't psychic, they have a lot on their plate.
4) when you first contact these elected officials be respectful, stay positive, remember these folks often work a regular job and serve the elected position without compensation. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar. Confrontation may be needed but first assess that need.
5) if there is an issue get your neighbors, church members, garden club, all who have the same concern; informed and involved.
6) PRAY! Don't assume that you don't need to compromise on an issue in the community. But know that God wins and include prayer in all your actions for your interests within the community.

All of the above are citizen responsibilities in our Republic. All are extensions of voting rights. IMHO - The failure to keep up with these responsibilities is what has allowed the DS to take hold.

Yes, meetings are often boring. I am an introvert and don't care for a lot of social interaction. But I detest the infestation in our nation throughout my life and I have attempted to participate in change at the local and state level.