Bruce Epperly: Democracy Demands Inclusion and Education

 The dangers to democracy are real.  Voter suppression is occurring before our eyes.  Through voter restriction and gerrymandering, some states are clearly and intentionally making it more difficult for persons of color, elderly, and low income persons to vote.  

As a Christian theologian and minister, I believe that all persons are touched by God and are God’s beloved children.  The word of God enlightens all people.  (John 1:9) God’s spirit touches every person, class, and group. (Acts 2:17-18).  These scriptures are foundational for respect and affirmation in daily life and in the democratic process.  

Despite our nation’s historical shortcomings, our founding parents asserted that “all men (sic.) are created equal.” This concept has been expanded to affirm that “all persons are created equal” and should, accordingly, have equal access to the democratic process.  Moreover, if everyone is God’s beloved child, gifted with some portion of divine inspiration, then everyone has the inherent and equal right to participate in the democratic process -to advocate for their beliefs and cast their vote.

Theologically speaking, democracy demands inclusion.  The moral and spiritual arcs of history widen the circle of concern, accessibility, and decision-making.  They do not contract that circle.  

Democracy depends on plural voices, even the voices of those with whom we disagree.  Accordingly, any policies that restrict or diminish participation go against the spirit of democracy.  There is no place in a democracy for placing difficult burdens on any sector of the community or creating burdens that other members do not experience.  Yet, this is precisely what is happening in the current legislative attempts to restrict voting access, restrictions that unfairly affect persons of color and elderly and lower income persons.  Based on the inherent dignity of all persons, we must oppose any limitation on voting rights and accessibility.

Further, democracy demands education.  We need to encourage persons to think for themselves and this means taking time to learn about American history, current events, the impact of legislation, and the role of government in securing personal and social wellbeing.  People may choose to be more liberal or conservative in perspective, but an informed populace leads to lively dialogue, and finding common ground among diverse positions and compromising for the greater good when necessary, along with civility in the political realm.

Accordingly, in a pluralistic society, where human value is universal, we need to promote the quest for inclusion and education for a healthy by:

1)    Contacting our representatives urging them to support the Freedom to Vote Act*

2)    Contacting our representatives urging them to support the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2021

3)    Educating yourself on and challenging voter restriction legislation and gerrymandering attempts in your state

4)    Reducing the impact of large financial contributions to political campaigns

5)    Encouraging the balanced and accurate study of USA history and political process most especially in your local schools

6)    Becoming active in groups that promote the expansion of democracy nationally and locally

7)    Honoring well-thought-out positions that differ from your position and, when possible, looking for areas of common ground.  

8)    Encouraging civility in the political process and challenging positions with whom you disagree while recognizing God’s presence in those who hold different viewpoints.

*This editorial was written before the Oct 20 Senate procedural vote on the Freedom to Vote Act did not pass, but published one day after on Oct 21.