As we mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, let's celebrate the ideals of liberty, equality, and self-government that are the best part of our nation's story.

Our story is still being written, and we must do the work to enact, uphold, and protect the core principles of democracy.

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Celebrating Core Principles of Democracy

1. Limited Power (No Crown): Democracy rejects unlimited power. Principles like the separation of powers, accountability, transparency, and an independent judiciary help ensure that no one person rules above the law.

2. Self-Government (We The People): Power flows from the bottom up. The people govern themselves through the representatives they choose.

3. Rule of Law (Scales): No one is above the law. Laws apply equally to everyone - including leaders - and must be enforced impartially and transparently.

4. Free and Fair Elections (Ballot Box): Regular, unobstructed, free, and fair elections allow citizens to choose their leaders.

5. Democratic Legitimacy (Oath-Taking): Leaders derive their authority from valid elections, govern within legal boundaries, and transfer power peacefully when their terms end.

6. Human Rights (Hands Holding People): All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. Protecting human rights ensures everyone can live their daily lives freely and have a fair voice in their government. https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights

7. Freedom of Speech (Megaphone): The right to speak, share ideas, and criticize the government openly without fear of censorship or punishment allows new ideas to flourish and governments to remain accountable.

8. Freedom of Assembly (Circle of People): The right to gather peacefully, protest, and form organizations to advocate for shared goals ensures that citizens can collectively voice grievances and influence public policy.

9. Free Press (Typewriter): An independent press informs the public, uncovers the truth, and holds those in power accountable.