Without Education, Democracy Is Doomed

On March 17th an article in the Minneapolis Star Tribune entitled "Dana Roskey: Democracy and literacy" focused strongly on the link between education and democracy. The comment is made that "The level of general education has a direct impact on degrees of functional democracy." Having been involved with education all of my life I can only wish that this close link was acknowledged more frequently and its obvious importance valued more highly.

In the past month I have been a part of the alarming political turmoil taking place in Wisconsin. I find it frightening that the governor and the ruling class in the state capitol have waged a veritable attack on not only teachers and state workers, but also, ultimately, on the entire educational system throughout the state.

At the same time that there has been an attack on teachers, students, schools and the educational system, the guiding principles of democracy also have been threatened. There have been limitations placed on citizen involvement in the legislative process and the legal rights of workers are being slowly and surely destroyed. If we cannot respect and support education, democracy and the rights of all citizens in our own small world how can we ever hope to lead and encourage democracy around the globe.

Education is a civil right. The link between education and a strong and vital democracy cannot be threatened. If those in power do only lip-service to supporting our educational systems, our future is hopeless and our democracy is doomed.

Seniors in the Eye of the Storm

Arthritis makes it difficult for Andrew to walk shoulder to shoulder with the other protesters. Maria Elena’s walking cane is plastered with colorful stickers of her grandchildren’s pictures that she proudly displays as she chants “Tell me what Democracy looks like.” The pain in Cherise’s shoulder makes it difficult to wave the banner high, but she responds at full volume with “This is what Democracy looks like.”

Protesting, marching, chanting and challenging government and established authority are far from customary behaviors for these apprehensive Wisconsin senior citizens. But like thousands of others who have lived and worked in Wisconsin for many years, the protesting and marching have become their call to action. They form one end of the spectrum. Children are at the other end. In this turbulent, disconcerting battle there will be very few winners.