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The life 
& times 
of
Warren Swil
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

V 1

 

by Warren Swil

Glendale News-Press July 4, 1996

As we enjoy the traditional barbecue and, perhaps later, a fireworks show this Fourth of July, we should also pause to appreciate what it really is we are celebrating on Independence Day.
Today we are marking the 220th birthday of our country, but it is more than just a birthday party; the fireworks are more than just the “candles” on the cake.

The Declaration of Independence adopted July 4, 1776 established liberty for all of us. But along with the freedom conferred on us came the responsibilities of citizenship.
While Americans no longer had to pay taxes without representation, independence did not mean we could pay no taxes at all. Rather, it meant we could now have a say - through our representative form of government - in how our taxes are spent.

The principle of freedom established by the founding fathers of our country has always implied its corollary, responsibility. The responsibilities of citizenship are not to be taken lightly. They include not only participating as a voter and taxpayer in our democratic institutions, but also remaining sufficiently informed to form reasoned opinions about the issues of the day.

A well-informed electorate is one of the cornerstones of our democracy. That is the reason our society places such a high priority on universal public education, and why so many of our tax dollars are devoted to it. But it doesn't end with being educated and informed.

Our democratic system, enshrined in the Declaration of Independence, also depends on the active participation of citizens with their government at all levels. At the very least, this means registering and voting at election time. For those who can, it also means staying in touch with your legislators and letting them know how you feel about their action or inaction.

It behooves us all as we celebrate today to reaffirm our commitment to fulfill the responsibilities of citizenship. That is the only way we can earn the right to continue enjoying the benefits of freedom.