Become acquainted with several democratic principles and consider the degree to which Coloradans throughout our history have accepted and demonstrated these principles. This list of principles is not complete. These simply represent a sample of key principles. As you review the definition of each principle, think about examples that show up in your own life.
During World War II, many of these principles came into conflict with one another when people of Japanese ancestry were removed from their homes and forced to live in Internment Camps. Think about these principles as you learn more about Japanese Internment through the story of Amache in Colorado.    

The rule of law means that no one is above the law. Everyone must obey the law. If they do not, they will be held accountable. The rule of law means that people cannot exercise power over others unless they are given the authority—the legal right—to do so.

Example(s) Obeying traffic laws. Accepting the results of a lawful election. 

People have freedoms that cannot be taken away by the government. The Bill of Rights—the first ten amendments to the Constitution—lists some of these rights. Some important rights are freedom of speech and press, religious liberty, right to a fair trial, freedom from unreasonable search and seizure, and protection from cruel and unusual punishment.

Example(s): Talking about ideas in public. Choosing your job and career path.    

Equality does not mean all people are or must be the same. Rather, it means all people have equal value. They have equal opportunities. They are not discriminated against because of such things as race, religion, ethnic group, gender, sexual orientation, or age.

In our democracy, sovereignty rests with the people. In order for the people to take part in self-government, they must participate in a variety of ways. These include voting, being informed about issues, running for office, attending public meetings, joining voluntary organizations, paying taxes, and the like.

Example: Voting when you turn 18 years old. 

Our democracy has drawn strength from the differences among its people. While majority rules in most situations, the rights of minorities are also protected. People who are not in power must be allowed to speak freely.

Example: Multiple cultural experiences are represented in school textbooks.

People have the right to own goods. They should be able to use that property as they see fit. Government should interfere as little as possible.

Example(s): Ability to buy your first car and lawfully sell it if you choose. Free markets.    

A key purpose of government is to protect people. This protection involves threats from outside the country. It also involves protecting people from threats from our fellow citizens. 

Examples: Local Police, FBI, CIA, Military

In our democracy, the “good citizen” must, from time to time, act for the common good. That is, he or she must put the benefits of society as a whole above his/her own interest.

Justice means fairness. The government must make fair decisions. Justice also refers to the procedures used to correct wrongs and injuries and to distribute benefits and burdens.

Example(s): Court trials. Reparations to someone that was falsely convicted of a crime.  

Standards for Democratic Principles: An Introduction

College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework