In a democracy, participation is essential. You need to find the courage to join in just as you are. You already dare a lot.

Democracy requires courage. The courage to speak out loud, even when you’re nervous. The courage to stand alone with an unpopular opinion. The courage to admit when you’re wrong—or to take responsibility for what you believe in. Courage isn’t the absence of fear, but the ability to act despite it. In a democratic community, we need courageous people who dare to speak up, create change, and stand up for themselves—while also making space for others to do the same.