A Late-breaking Appeal from the Radical Democrats

Kaci (a Radical Democrat) writes:
Athenians, we’ve gathered today to make a decision on something that could change our lives forever. What are we to do about our government and the way we run our great city? Well, the Radical Democrats have an answer to your questions.

We have been founded on Democracy, yes? Then why should we turn from it now? Cleisthenese taught us about Democracy and we have learned that it is a system we can count on in times of need. Our system works just the way it is now. Random lottery is what will help us, as citizens of Athens, to be equally represented in our discussions. If we were to elect a single individual, or even only a portion of our population, not all of our citizens would have their voices be heard. That’s what Democracy is all about. We need to stick with this system.

The opposition states that the lottery provides the opportunity for the officials to be incompetent. However, we should trust the individuals who put their name in the lottery to know their own strengths and weaknesses. Even so, if it should happen that an official is incompetent, the citizens of Athens can deal with that incompetence in a manner that will help move the Assembly forward. This could be a vote to select a new official by lottery, or something else equally as applicable. The lottery is an invaluable system that we use to ensure that our decisions are made on equal grounds. We must continue to take advantage of this system.

Concerning the matter of voters’ rights, the Radical Democrats would like to propose to you that we allow everyone to vote. The Metics and Slaves helped us in our time of great need, and we believe that they should be rewarded. Let us give them the rights they deserve by awarding them their right to vote. This way, we can unite our entire population as one great people. We will be stronger than ever before.

Our opponents say that asking everyone to vote would take the workers away from their duties. However, voting is a choice, not a requirement. If the farmers and laborers don’t want to or can’t come to the Assembly due to their duties at home, then they won’t have to vote. But the simple fact that they would be allowed to is the important part of this issue. These workers may have the time to come and represent one another, maybe not all of them, but at least some. Giving them the opportunity is what will keep our city’s decisions equally discussed.

My fellow Athenians, listen to what the Radical Democrats have to say. Our city is worth striving for, and this is the way to keep it thriving. I would have our great city grow, and if we implement Democracy and equality into our governmental system, our society will flourish.