From its very beginning, America’s demo-cratic experiment was founded on the twin ideals of citizen rights and citizen responsibilities. The Founders who drafted our Constitution during the hot summer of 1787 feared the excesses of both aristocracy and democracy. They understood history’s great political lesson: too much power in the hands of the few or in the hands of the majority can yield tyranny.

The founders believed that citizens must be guaranteed basic rights so they can fully participate in their government. Citizens, in effect, must be guaranteed participatory power: this power must be protected from government interference. Hence, America, the tradition of a free press, the right to assemble peacefully and petition government, the right to join organizations seeking political goals and the right to vote.

Since ultimate power rests on active, participating citizens, one can say that the Founders created an “office of citizen.” This office, like the office of president or senator, is guaranteed certain rights, prerogatives and powers. But, the office of citizen also requires the fulfillment of obligations and responsibilities.

Early on in democracy’s journey, Aristotle noted: “It is not always the same thing to be a good man and a good citizen.” Good intentions and an upstanding nature do not necessarily make a person a “citizen.” Participation – working on behalf of the community – is the necessary requisite to be called a citizen.

Why be a citizen if it requires so much time, frustration, worry, anger and energy? Why not just drop out? Let someone else do it. Who then are the “doers?” What do they do? Do they do what you think should be done? What you want done? What if everyone is a “free rider?” Ironically, while people may be disinclined to play – and thus take a free ride – oftentimes they are not willing to give up being noisy spectators.

Getting started as a citizen – as an active player – is what matters. The size of the step or the issue involved is not as important. First steps usually lead to more steps. Rewards should be given to anyone, particularly students, who take those first brave steps. Are there first steps that your class might take? What issue might get them to dig for information, work on behalf of something or someone? A citizen is a moving object, not one at rest.