Spreading the word: speaking to a group of adults is a great occasion to promote democracy and help your constituents understand that it's often the arguing and fighting that makes the process work.

• Author: Kurtz, Karl
• Position: TOOLS OF THE TRADE

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As a legislator, you receive many invitations to speak to civic and community groups and other gatherings. These occasions are ideal opportunities to raise awareness about our system of government and promote a positive image of the legislative institution. Here are some talking points to help you.

PUTTING DEMOCRACY IN PERSPECTIVE

* In 1776, courageous people in the colonies of North America formed a new government in the belief that ordinary people were born with the right to live in freedom. They wanted a democracy where people could participate. Today we recognize it as the most successful form of government ever developed.

* The system those colonists developed called for the election of individuals to represent our views at local, state and national levels of government. In return for the freedom to live our lives the way we wish, we entrust those officials to learn about the important issues and develop policy and laws that will improve our nation. Our representative democracy--also known as a republic--has endured remarkably for more than 225 years.

* Our system of government is recognized around the world for the freedom that it gives our people. However, today's Americans--especially young people--are cynical about our democratic institutions. A poll of 18- to 24-year-olds by the National Association of Secretaries of State showed that more than 50 percent say, "You can't trust politicians because they are dishonest." Two-thirds of young people said, "My generation's voice is important, but no one is listening." Nine out of 10 agreed with the statement: "A few big interests run the government."

This distrust of public officials and the process has a serious consequence. People have stopped participating. They no longer speak up, and many have stopped voting. Eighty-five percent of all ages say, "Elected officials would help more if they stopped talking and took action on problems."

* Representative democracy is not without flaws, but it works better than any alternative. Our system of government is far from perfect. Only through everyone's work can we take the steps needed to preserve the freedoms we currently enjoy and to pass them on to future generations.

POINTS YOU CAN MAKE

1. Legislators care: They pay close attention to their constituents' views because legislators are products of their communities and, more often than not, think like their constituents. They want to work hard for their districts, and...