What does democracy mean to you?

We're so fortunate to be based out of the nation's capitol, where we are surrounded by reminders of democracy and independence - whether it be the government buildings and agencies, national monuments, or countless rallies and protests.

Best of all, there are diverse groups of people and tourists from all over the country and world who come to live in and visit this city, and at the heart of democracy and independence are people.

And in honor of Independence Day, we want to hear what you have to say! What does democracy mean to you?

In line with other great programs out there that aim to provide a platform for individuals to share what democracy means to them, like what Everyday Democracy is doing on their website, we want to offer another way for you to add your voice to the mix and share it publicly. First, our energetic interns hit the streets of DC to get first-hand what people have to share on camera. Below are some of the great responses that were shared with us. 

Then, we also tweeted out the question from our Case Foundation Twitter account. Here are a few of the responses:

• @YC2N: Democracy to me, in short, means "personal choice" or Freedom of choice...from my travels it seems to make all the diff!
• @Ladychow666: being free to be who I am while contributing positively to society
• @chrisrotvik: citizens who are educated on and engaged in the issues // What does democracy mean to you?
• @causeofbeing: It means nothing at the moment. That word, like love, has been thrown around loosely and lost its power.
• @HHFoHhelpsHAITI: Democracy provides us the FREEDOM to change things for the better; to reach out in love and help those in need.

So, what does democracy mean to you? Please continue to share it via Twitter to @CaseFoundation, in the comments below, or over at Everyday Democracy!