There Are Still Some Real democrats: Why the little "d" in democrats?
In the distant past there were democrats. In the recent past there were some democrats. And, there are still some democrats. A democrat might be thought of as one who believes in our ability to learn and to do. I know little about what those who call themselves democrats are doing now. I do have a sharp memory for much of that which democrats have done in the past.
I hope you understand that I am not using the word “democrat” to refer to a member of a political party, but rather to one who holds a certain philosophical position. A Democrat can be a democrat, but she doesn’t have to.
Democrats have tended to promote certain doings. Those doings have tended to be definitive of their beliefs.
Democrats have promoted:
~ improved communications within political organizations and among them.
~ enhancement and protection of democracy among us.
~ the study of legislation affecting democracy.
~ vigorous ongoing education about the use and doing of democracy.
~ development of widespread leadership rather than super-leaders.
~ enhanced education for participation in government.
~ cooperative self-governance.
~ willingness to thoughtfully and promptly change a bad law for the better.
~ strong respect for the law.
~exclusivity and diversity in public life.
~ cooperation within and among groups.
~ knowledge of the history of democracy, including its limitations and advantages.
~ respect for the varieties of democracy around the world.
~ our Constitution at its Bill or Rights.
~ loving care for each and every child.
~ respect and honor for the individual, the family, and the neighborhood.
~ more nearly equal opportunity for access to healthcare for each person.
~ strong support and oversight for our public health systems.
~respect and support for the position of minorities.
~ the practice of better dialogue.
~ wide, ongoing educational opportunities for all.
~ honesty.
This list can be greatly improved. However, there is already enough here to suggests planks for the platform of a present political party or candidate, or, a new party and candidates.
by Richard Sheehan