In addition to voicing concerns through peaceful protests, U.S. citizens who are worried about the next four years should write to their congressman or congresswoman to have a more enduring effect on the political process.
During the tumultuous days since the election, protests have erupted in major cities all over the country. Many of these demonstrations have been peaceful and effective in projecting a collective voice over their concerns and outrage, but the passion of these protests must continue in the form of reaching out to their congressman or congresswoman who represent the voices of Americans.
The U.S. government is not a pure democracy. Rather, it operates as a representative democracy in which its citizens elect officials to represent them through legislation. Although this form of government has its benefits, critics may argue it dissociates American citizens from the political process.
The recognition of this possible hindrance is different than taking part in using it to one’s own advantage.
The people belonging to the districts that elected officials lead are constituents. The very basic premise of the American government holds that these officials must listen to the voices of their constituents to effectively represent them and the causes they believe to be important. Thus, people should write to their congressman or congresswoman to directly voice their concerns over specific issues.
As with any passionate endeavor, there is a tendency to have a rush of energy at the beginning, but as time goes on, it quickly fades away, as does the endeavor. Americans often favor the dramatic: dumping tea in harbors, storming the steps of the National Mall, et cetera.
These efforts may be noble and courageous, but the actions that often achieve the greatest impact, the quiet actions done in stale rooms that do not make the television screen, are no less noble or courageous.
