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DEMOCRACY - FREEDOM - RULE OF LAW
OUR CORE VALUES
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"The rule of law is like the rules of a sports game — everyone has to follow the same rules, no matter how famous or powerful they are. Without those rules, the game would be unfair and chaotic."
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"The rule of law is what makes the United States a place where anyone — no matter their background — can live with fairness, safety, and opportunity."
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"The rule of law means no one is above the rules — not the rich, not powerful politicians, and not the police. It’s what keeps our country fair and free. Without it, anyone could cheat, steal, or abuse power without consequences. By defending the rule of law, we’re protecting our rights, our families, and our future."
Three Key Ways to Preserve the Rule of Law
Preserving the rule of law isn’t just the responsibility of lawyers, judges, or politicians — it requires everyday people to stay informed, engaged, and active in their communities. Here are three practical ways Americans can help protect this vital principle:
1. Stay Informed and Educate Others
Understanding what the rule of law is — and why it matters — is the first step in defending it. People are less likely to recognize threats to democracy if they don’t know what’s at stake.
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Learn the Basics: Understand your rights, how government works, and what the Constitution guarantees.
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Share Knowledge: Talk to family, friends, and your community about why fairness, accountability, and following the law matter.
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Challenge Misinformation: Speak up when you hear false claims or misleading information about the legal system, elections, or government. Clear, fact-based conversations can help counter confusion.
Example: Encourage conversations at schools, workplaces, or local events about the importance of impartial courts, fair elections, and accountability for public officials.
2. Support Institutions that Uphold the Rule of Law
Strong, independent institutions are essential to enforcing laws fairly and protecting individual rights. Citizens can help by supporting these systems and holding them accountable.
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Engage with Local Government: Attend town hall meetings, ask questions about local policies, and stay informed about how your leaders uphold the law.
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Support Fair Elections: Volunteer at polling stations, help register voters, or assist in nonpartisan efforts that promote safe and secure elections.
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Back Independent Media and Fact-Checking Efforts: Trusted news sources play a key role in exposing corruption and informing the public.
Example: When judges are elected or appointed, research their records to ensure they have a history of fairness and commitment to upholding the law.
3. Promote Civic Engagement and Accountability
The rule of law thrives when citizens actively participate in democracy and demand accountability from those in power.
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Vote in Every Election: National, state, and local elections all shape laws and leadership — your vote is a powerful tool for protecting democracy.
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Hold Leaders Accountable: Write letters to representatives, sign petitions, or peacefully protest if you believe the government is overstepping its authority.
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Encourage Peaceful Discourse: In a divided political climate, promoting respectful conversation helps prevent violence and extremism, which can undermine legal systems.
Example: If a public official violates ethical or legal standards, citizens can contact their representatives, join advocacy groups, or support investigations to ensure accountability.
In Summary: To help preserve the rule of law:
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Stay informed and help others understand its importance.
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Support institutions that promote fairness, justice, and accountability.
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Get involved in your community and democracy by voting, volunteering, and demanding accountability.
By taking these steps, Americans can help ensure that the rule of law remains strong — protecting individual freedoms and ensuring justice for generations to come.