Residents urged to take part in Democracy Week

Sunday: Residents are encouraged to read the first two paragraphs of the Declaration of Independence, the Preamble to the Constitution and the Bill of Rights (see www.archives.gov/national-archives-experience/charters/charters.html). They're encouraged to think about, write down or converse with family, friends and neighbors the key ideas in those passages.

Monday: Residents are encouraged to walk around their neighborhood and stop to talk with five people they don't know very well or at all, then share with them their thoughts on democracy and citizen involvement. The organizers hope cafes will hold "open mic" events about democracy and hope that radio stations will allow people to call in an talk about democracy.

Tuesday: Residents are encouraged to find out who represents them at all levels of government. At 7 p.m. there will be a mayoral candidate forum at Westminster College's Vieve Gore Concert Hall. New citizens, first-time voters, immigrants and refugees are encouraged to attend. Voter registration will be available.

Wednesday: Residents are encouraged to research a public policy topic, using objective, nonpartisan sources, then to write down three legitimate reasons that support their opinions and three reasons that support the opposing position.

Thursday: Residents are encouraged to visit a local library to check out a book on democracy.

Friday: Local businesses are encouraged to conduct mini-political literacy workshops with their employees during breaks or lunch time. Those businesses wanting to participate may call the Salt Lake mayor's office to request materials to help conduct these discussions.

Saturday: Residents are encouraged to write a letter to the editor expressing what democracy means to them.