It’s important that you are a good citizen and equally important that others treat you like an equal citizen. People with disabilities are often not given the same liberties as others. They are sometimes seen as “less than,” or not as important. The best way to make sure this doesn’t happen to you is to know your rights. Know what it looks like when your rights are ignored.
Being a good citizen includes
- Having respect for others and their property
- Knowing your rights and respecting the rights of others
- Being informed on the issues of the day
- Learning the facts of our true history, both good and bad
- Having compassion and empathy for others
- Being tolerant and accepting of others’ beliefs and attitudes
- Having integrity and Compassion
- Recognizing and respecting the truth and speaking truth
- Registering to vote and participate in voting
- Showing respect to servicemen and women
- Respecting the flag
- Respecting law enforcement agencies
- Responding to jury duty notices
- Paying taxes
- Being active in your community
As a citizen of the United States of America and the State of Louisiana, you have the same citizen rights as everyone else that are citizens of the USA and Louisiana. Good citizens are self-disciplined, have moral courage, and have a love for justice.
One of the easiest things to do in order to be a good citizen is to respect others and their property. It doesn’t cost you anything, yet it’s a very important life skill. Respecting others means listening to them to understand, not just to respond. Give people personal space. Never touch anyone without permission. Respecting other people’s things means you will treat their belongings like your own. You won’t touch them, take them, or break them. You should expect others to treat you and your belongings the same way.
Not everyone believes everything you believe, and you may not believe everything others believe. This is especially true about politics and religion. You just need to respect their beliefs and should receive the same respect for your beliefs.
Once you turn 18 years old, you will have the right to register to vote. Voting is a right, but it also comes with the responsibility of learning as much as you can about a candidate or issues so you can make an informed decision. Why do you like one candidate more than another? How important are the amendments to you? Everyone needs to be a responsible voter.
All male U.S. Citizens and male immigrants residing in the United States must register with the Selective Services at the age of 18. This includes individuals with disabilities.
Get involved in your community by participating in community activities and volunteering. Everyone should do their part to keep their community thriving.
We are all expected to be good citizens. Our country and state are only as healthy as each of its citizens.
Resources
Updated 8/9/2023
