STATEMENT FROM DISTRICT 5580 GOVERNOR BOB MCLEAN: ROTARY IS NON-POLITICAL

Last week, a message was sent to District 5580 Leadership reminding all of us that Rotary is deliberately NON-POLITICAL and non-religious; open to all who promote peace.  With the 4 Way Test as our compass, Rotary has earned the trust and respect of organizations around the globe (including political and religious) by focusing on our mission; doing good in the world through service above self.  If you are interested in reading the article, your club or district leadership can easily provide a copy for you.

 

One of our most fundamental rights AND responsibilities as citizens (U.S., Canada, or any democracy) is to participate as active informed VOTERS.  In 2012, Rotary helped bring that to a new level of appreciation for me when District 5580 was host to a GSE team from Tasmania District 9830.  One of the team members was a guest in our home, a smart young professional.  In the course of discussing the similarities and nuances of our respective countries she shared that, with few exceptions (other than paying an opt-out fee) everyone in Tasmania is REQUIRED TO VOTE.  And since it is required, she and her friends take it upon themselves to be informed about the issues and people they are voting for.  That is fascinating and inspiring; to have an entire population who are informed and participating VOTERS in their democracy.

 

So, borrowing from our friends down under, regardless of who or what you may be voting for, I would wish for all that we take the time to be informed citizens and participate. VOTE!  It is one of the most treasured rights we have as citizens.