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Today democracy and the rule of law are under foreign and domestic attack. The proliferation of disinformation and division have given rise to dangerous authoritarianism. It is now more important than ever to remember what we Americans all stand for together in this country: That our government of the people, by the people and for the people is uniquely moral and precious.
That we all have the right to control our own lives but we need to support the common good. That decency, honesty and respect for one another are necessary to our national unity and well-being.
That government should do what we cannot do alone, like societal protections, infrastructure and education. That government is legitimate only if we, the governed, consent to it.
That all of us have the right to a say in our government. That all of us have the unalienable right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That all of us must be treated equally before the law. That truth, morality, an informed public and fair elections are essential for our republic to function. That these are the fundamental principles for which our country has stood for almost 250 years. That this is the democracy we have believed in, fought for and died for throughout our entire history.
That we are still one nation, indivisible, standing strong and striving for liberty and justice for all.
David Estey
Belfast
