A Message from Business Manager Chris Erikson
“No man can be a good citizen unless he has a wage more than sufficient to cover the bare cost of living, and sufficient hours of labor short enough so after his day’s work is done he will have time and energy to bear his share in the management of the community, to help in carrying the general load.” — Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States
Once upon a time in America those words rang true, but not so much today. What is the responsibility of a citizen? To respect and obey federal, state, and local laws. Respect the rights, beliefs, and opinions of others. Participate in your local community. Pay income and other taxes honestly, and on time.
Furthermore, what is the importance of good citizenship? Good citizens contribute to our economic security, peace, and order in our lives. They enrich the diversity and inclusion in our neighborhoods and add political stability through the democratic process. Good citizens are active participants informed enough to elect representatives qualified to lead. They understand and protect their rights, and they uphold their responsibilities, especially to vote and participate in the democratic process. Good citizenship is what our country needs now more than ever, yet it seems to be lacking in today’s fast-paced society.
Having respect for others and their property, knowing your rights and respecting the rights of others, being informed on the issues of the day, learning the facts of our true history — both good and bad — as well as having compassion and empathy for others, all of which will continue to make our country the best place in the world to live and work.
Electchester is the perfect community model of what it means to embrace citizenship responsibly. As Local 3 members, we make the wages and enjoy the shorter hours that Teddy Roosevelt spoke about, in order to participate and to fulfill our responsibility to make our community better for all of its citizens. Harry would be proud.
