“The strength of a free society depends on citizens who are willing to speak, write, and stand for the principles they believe in.”
Recently, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) warned that communities across America could face increasing challenges from radical Islamic ideologies if citizens and elected leaders fail to address them. His concern is that cities and states could eventually experience cultural and political changes that conflict with traditional American values, constitutional freedoms, and religious liberty.
Regardless of where you stand on this issue, one thing is certain: citizens have the right and responsibility to make their voices heard by the leaders they elect.
Organizations such as Secure America Now are asking citizens to sign petitions directed to their Governors expressing opposition to radical Islamic influence and advocating for stronger policies to protect American values and security. Along with the petition, contributors are encouraged to donate amounts ranging from $28 to $5,000 to support the organization’s efforts.
This raises a question that many citizens should consider: Why should Americans have to contribute money in order to have their opinions delivered to elected officials?
Our U.S. Senators, Representatives, State Legislators, and Governors are elected to represent the people. They should be actively seeking the views of their constituents and engaging in meaningful dialogue about issues that concern the public. Citizens should also be asking important questions about political advocacy organizations, including how donations are used, what percentage supports the stated cause, and what portion is spent on fundraising, administration, or other activities.
Ultimately, the most effective way to communicate with elected officials may be the simplest: write directly to them.
I have personally written a letter to my Governor regarding these issues. Any citizen can do the same. A letter costs less than a dollar to mail, yet it often carries more weight than an online comment or form submission. Many elected officials and their staff pay close attention to written correspondence because it reflects a greater level of engagement and commitment from constituents.
If this issue is important to you, consider writing your own letter to your Governor, State Representatives, and U.S. Senators. Make your views known directly and respectfully.
To help others do this, I have attached a Google Document that you can download, customize, and use as a template for your own letter.
Instructions:
- Click “Download.”
- Open the document.
- Select “File” → “Make a Copy.”
- Save your copy and personalize it with your own thoughts and concerns.
- Mail it to your elected officials.
An informed and engaged citizenry remains one of the greatest safeguards of a free society.
Quote:
“Freedom is not preserved by silence. It is preserved when citizens respectfully and courageously make their voices heard.”
Copyright Notice © 2025 Dr. Cecil Wayne Thorn . Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy of this work authored by Cecil Wayne Thorn, to distribute, display, and reproduce the work, in its entirety, including verbatim copies, provided that no fee is charged for the copies or distribution. This permission is granted for non-commercial distribution only