Chapter 4 Section 3: Citizen’s Duties and Responsibilities

Duties of Citizenship: In return for the privileges of citizenship, citizens have duties they must perform that are crucial to making our democratic government work. Obeying the law: It’s our duty to know the laws and to obey them. Attending School: Most states require their children to attend school until age This service is provided by tax dollars. For democracy to function, it needs educated citizens who can think for themselves and work to help the economy grow.

Taxes: When you buy things, you pay taxes. When you are paid, you pay taxes. We might not love paying taxes, but we enjoy the services they pay for. Taxes fund police and firemen, teachers, pay for our paves roads, military/defense, and countless other services. Serving in the Armed Forces: When America is threatened, our citizens have come together to defend it. Volunteers have found in every war in U.S. history. Sometimes it has had to draft men into the military to fill needs, but it hasn’t happened since Vietnam. All 18 year old men have to register and if they are needed, they are drafted Appearing in Court: Citizens must report to serve as members of a jury if they are called to do so, this is called jury duty. Citizens must take time off of work to serve, and are only paid a small amount to do so. The Constitution guarantees citizens the right to a trial by jury of their peers. For our justice system to work, citizens must serve on juries.

Responsibilities of Citizenship: Voting: “If you don’t vote, don’t complain about the results.” Many people throughout our history gave their lives so that our citizens could vote. Voting is an honor and a responsibility. Our government is based on the consent (approval) of the governed. Therefore, we must let our legislators know when we approve or disapprove of their actions. We do that by voting. Being Informed: Voting wisely means that people must be informed about candidates, current events, and key issues. That involves taking an active role in government activities and voicing your opinion. Taking Part in Government: Taking an active role in government means joining a political party, helping to shape positions on issues, leading and educating others, and trying to influence public opinion. It also means that people should run for political office and serve wisely if elected. The quality of any democratic government depends on the quality of people who serve in it.

Helping Your Community: One of the most important ways you can be a responsible citizen is to take pride in your community. There are many ways to help in your community, you can volunteer by giving your time to help at a homeless shelter or participate in a walk/run for charity. The government is not all knowing, and can’t fix every problem. Small acts of kindness can help make your community a better place to live, and every one can do it. Respecting & Protecting Others’ Rights: Every person should know their rights as an American citizen, and it’s also important to remember that everyone around you shares those rights. Knowing this, it’s important to respect those rights as well as to recognize when the rights of others are being violated. You have a responsibility to protect those rights, for you and for others. Only then will our government truly be for everyone who lives here.