The country has moved on from political parties. The pillars that have traditionally defined the contrast no longer align, and people’s ability to participate continues to dwindle. When one’s rights are removed, it impacts the freedom of all citizens within the United States. When so many are stepping away, now more than ever, there is an opportunity to push back.
Our elected officials have moved on from representing the majority of Idahoans. These actions can be observed at both the federal and state levels. A continued effort to appease a minority view creates an issue that is easier to drive fear around. Mike Simpson wants you to believe he works for Idahoans, forgetting what drives the Idaho economy. The decisions being made do not point to any pillar of conservative ideology.
The initiative process is probably one of the most democratic processes in Idaho. It expands beyond ideology and meets citizens where they are. When items make our ballots, they are the direct voice of the people. Our local legislature continues to work to reduce the possibility of this happening in Idaho. As the citizens of Idaho speak against the minority efforts of our legislatures, they work to ensure it cannot continue to happen.
Many of Idaho’s legislators take pride in being a drive force in the culture war spreading across the country. It started by passing laws against transgender people, then abortion, and now it is marriage equality. We must ask our policymakers to lead us to be number one in education, Medicaid, and taxes, true pillars within both parties’ ideologies. The reality is our elected leaders are more focused on creating a divide among the citizens of Idaho. They want clear definitions to help identify who belongs and who does not.
Several years ago, many were appalled by the removal of some of the monuments that were not reminders of our best actions as a country. In the past week, several institutions were put on the chopping block. However, many are okay with watching the institutions that built us get removed. This symbolizes the moratorium our state and country impose on each citizen and the expansion of freedom.
Each person must pick a path and get engaged. It is vital to take the time to contact our representatives and ask them to get back on track. We must understand how to show up and testify to the need for our rights. Engaging in the political process to help build up the majority’s voice is not about what side you fall on. Without action, the road ahead for this country is watching it wash away and return to dirt.
Dan Barker, Master of Human Resources Management, is a leadership consultant and the chair of the Bonneville County Democratic Central Committee.