Proudly hanging on Detroit’s office door
For some strange reason the Argus decided to not post their reporter’s essays online, only in a print version last Sunday, so I’m sorry I can’t link Joe’s entire piece, but can give you tidbits.
He wrote glowingly about public input and the importance of it;
Almost every Tuesday of the year, dozens converge at Carnegie Town Hall to handle the city’s business. Some get paid to be there. Some don’t.
. . .
Many people fear public speaking including me. Yet people still come to the various meetings and their passion for their community overrides that fear. They want to be heard.
. . .
“Without debate, without criticism, no administration and no country can succeed – and no republic can survive. That is why the Athenian lawmaker Solon decreed it a crime for any citizen to shrink from controversy.” President John F. Kennedy said that to the American Newspaper Publishers Association in 1961.
What happens in our chambers happens across the country in cities large and small. And each time, it’s inspiring.
A small board, elected to represent. A mayor, elected to lead.
And residents – taking their own time to understand issues, and using their power as voters and community members to be heard.
As a journalist, I watch it play out every week.
And each time, I’m awed by the courage.
Joe teaches us why public input is so important to a democracy.