11 August 2019: What values are important in a democratic society?

I think it helpful to consider what values or institutions are important in a democratic society, so all of interested in improving life locally or around the world can think about specific areas to focus on.

This is my list, to date. What do you think?

* Government that is ethical, accountable, transparent and effective

* Representative government / popular sovereignty

* Free and fair elections

* Protecting the right to vote

* Limiting the ability of money to “buy” elections

* Fair and independent courts

* Separation of powers

* Due process of law

* Freedom of the press or media, with diverse ownership

* Freedom of speech

* Freedom of religion

* Freedom of association; right to assemble

* Civi rights / human rights / equal rights

* Privacy protection including digital rights

* Areas of public policy: affordable housing, public and mental health, accessible and quality health care, neighborhood safety, climate change action, clean air and water, protection of the environment, safe working conditions