Responsibilities of Citizens Citizens of the U.S. have the opportunity and the responsibility to participate in their government. This process of self-government insures that power will always remain where it belongs - with the people.
Every person is expected to obey the laws of the community, state and country in which he or she lives. All Americans are expected to respect the rights of others. All persons living in the U.S. are expected to pay the income taxes and other taxes honestly and on time. To be responsible members of their communities, citizens can volunteer their services to help obtain needed improvements. Citizens can offer their knowledge and talents to different local organizations or committees. Participation in town meetings, public hearing and community projects is important for community improvement and for finding out the problems that need to be solved.
Last updated: December 1, 1999 |
most
important right citizens have is the right to vote. By voting,
the people have a voice in the government. The people decide who will
represent them in the government. Officials can be voted in or out
of office. Every person’s vote counts the same as another person’s
vote.
government may
call upon citizens to serve on a jury. If an individual is
chosen for jury duty, he or she must stop work and attend the trial
as long as he or she is needed. The members of the jury need to decide
the case in as fair a way as they can.
