Democratic Beliefs

The following ideals identify what we believe as SML Democrats, and what we want to achieve for our community and our country. We adapted some of these statements from several sources (including the Democratic Party of America, the Franklin County Democratic Committee and Smith Mountain Lake Democrat members), exemplifying our shared values in the state and across the country.

Economic Prosperity

• Open government that works for and supports its people. 
• An equitable tax system where everyone pays their fair share.
• Workers’ rights, including a living minimum wage. No one who works full-time should live in poverty.
• Protecting and growing the middle class.
• Preserving and improving Social Security to support older adults and those in poor health.
• The right of workers to organize and collectively bargain with employers.
• Improving and maintaining our infrastructure.

Educational Excellence

• High quality public education that encourages students to pursue their interests and to be engaged in their communities.
• An educated populace is crucial to a free and democratic form of government.
• Truth in education will help students grow with understanding and critical thinking. We believe in acknowledging and learning from our history.
• The separation of church and state as stated in the First Amendment to the US Constitution. We believe public education should provide information about all religions without endorsement or prejudice.

Environmental Protection

• Clean energy initiatives are imperative .
• Climate change is real and that it is our responsibility to protect life on our planet as we know it. 
• We must preserve the environment through legislation.

Freedom

• All human beings are born free and equal.
• Every citizen has First Amendment rights, without prejudice.
• Every citizen has an equal right to vote.
• Equality and justice for all promoted by honest leadership and open government. 
• Sensible and equitable regulation of firearms, including banning weapons of war.

Healthcare for all Americans

• Accessible, affordable, high quality health care is a right, not a privilege.
• Everyone should have adequate health care coverage to help with health care costs.
• Illness or injury should not cause financial devastation.

Human Rights

• Ensuring that all Americans are treated with dignity and respect in their communities, their workplaces and their schools.
• Equal rights for all Americans, regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, language, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability status.
• Respect for women and in advancing their rights, including equal pay, reproductive health care, representation in government and leadership, and stopping violence toward women.

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