Defense of Democracy

Mission Statement We advocate for legislators, educators, and administrators who will work to maintain communities as well as a public education system that supports and enhances our shared experiences regardless of religious beliefs, cultural background, or sexual orientation. Statement of beliefs: *Anyone who is part of our group must be an ally; our members are expected to regularly advocate for marginalized communities. *We do not take a stand regarding specific books. Our group believes that giving children access to literature is a major part of the learning experience and one of the most important ways to enhance critical thinking skills. We support our educators who are trained to make decisions regarding which books would be appropriate on their shelves. *We do not take stands regarding what is taught in individual classrooms. Our group believes that exposing children to new ideas is a major part of the learning experience. We support educators who are trained to enhance our children's critical thinking skills by sharing a variety of age appropriate information. Information about the human experience, including gender identity, different religious beliefs, and accurate historical facts should be part of all levels of education. *Promoting a “religious worldview” by a public school official is intolerable at any level. *Our group cares about our children and while it is heartbreaking that we have to even include this point... common sense gun control and stricter gun laws are important parts of our beliefs as well.