What has democracy done for you lately?

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A quick survey would produce an interesting and varied list of democracy's legacy, much of which we take for granted.

The foremost benefit is the equal treatment of all, no matter if or how much property one owns. In the ‘olden days' only property owners could vote, and of course, before that, no one could vote.

Two other important cornerstones of democracy are freedom of the press and freedom of religion. Anyone is free to write a letter to the editor, and we are free to print that letter without threat, and citizens are just as free to enter the church of their choice without fear.

Do you enjoy vacation pay, sick benefits, a pension plan, paid statutory holidays, maternity benefits, the option of union membership and all the other fringe benefits that come standard with a job?

They are yours to enjoy because of the freedom to demonstrate and lobby for such things, available courtesy of democracy.

Those who have been accused of a crime are innocent until proven guilty, another facet of our democratic society, which is a great relief to those who have been accused but who are actually innocent.

How about the concept of one person-one vote? Just because you are rich, older, more experienced, or have a better job makes no difference when it comes to casting your vote each one has the same value. There is also the added luxury of voting without fear. Just read the headlines coming out of many other countries, where people are shot as they wait to cast their votes, and you will surely appreciate the ease with which we can vote.

Then there is the secret ballot a magnificent invention where you don't have to get up in front of your neighbours, employers and family to proclaim your choice, as used to be the case. For us, we can do it privately.

Then after we've elected a government or a representative, we have, thankfully, the power to get rid of that person or government if they fail to perform as promised.

Sir Winston Churchill is the author of this bit of wisdom: It has been said that democracy is the worst form of government, except all the others that have been tried.

Yes, democracy has a lot of scratches and bruises, but it has proven to be the best available system for governing. However, in order for it to work and survive citizen participation is vital. In fact, it is the foundation upon which democracy rests.

There should be almost nothing more important on your to-do list for May 12 than voting in the municipal elections.

It is your input that will determine who governs your life locally for the next four years. These are the people who will decide which of your roads will be repaired, how much your property tax will rise (or fall) and how growth and development will be managed in your town or village. They are the ones responsible for your water quality and your quality of life. Surely you will want to have a voice in those decisions.

This is your chance. Make an effort, and make the privilege of voting a priority.