1.1 Your Role in Ohio’s State & Local Government

Another reason you should care about care about state and local government is that you can influence the policies they make.

By reading this book, you will not just learn about state and local government; you will learn how to influence it to advance the values you believe in. Civic engagement is the backbone of a healthy democracy. It means actively participating in your communities and being involved in the political processes that affect us. This involvement ensures that our voices are heard and our interests are represented.

One of the most fundamental ways to engage civically is by voting. Voting in local and state elections allows us to choose leaders who represent our values and priorities. It gives us the power to influence decisions on critical issues such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Staying informed about the candidates and issues on the ballot helps us make choices that align with our beliefs.

Civic engagement goes beyond just voting. As you learn about the formal institutions in which decisions are made and who makes those decisions, you’ll identify ways to influence the process.

Civic engagement also involves respecting the rights and opinions of others. This means listening to different perspectives, engaging in constructive dialogue, and working together to find solutions to common problems. It’s not just about advancing our own interests but contributing to the common good and building a stronger, more resilient society.

By being informed, active, and respectful participants in the political process, we contribute to the prosperity of our communities. Engaging with state and local government helps us shape the policies that directly affect our lives, making our communities better places to live.