Rights, responsibilities, privileges A citizen is a legal member of a country. But does just living there make him a good citizen? What are the characteristics of a good citizen? U.S. citizens enjoy many rights and privileges. The Constitution gives us the right to speak freely. We can also worship, or not worship, any way we want to. We can run for public office. The government can't control the press. Our leaders are chosen by the people. These are just some of the many benefits of being a U.S. citizen. But citizens also have many responsibilities. Some of these are written in the laws. Citizens have to pay taxes. These include property tax, income tax, and sales tax, to name a few. Citizens must also serve on a jury if they are called. Men have to register for the draft and serve in the military if they are needed.

What else can you do in order to be a good citizen What else can you do in order to be a good citizen? You can start by obeying the laws. Laws are written to protect people's rights. Can you imagine if there were no laws? People could hurt others whenever they wanted to. It is important to follow the laws. If you break a law, you will have to suffer a punishment. Good citizens stay informed about current events. They read and watch the news. They know what is happening in their communities. Paying attention to what is going on in our country and around the world is also important.

If you stay informed, you can participate in your government If you stay informed, you can participate in your government. If you see a problem in your neighborhood, you can tell your local politicians about it. If you have a concern about your state or the country, you can write to your representative or senator. Staying informed also helps you to choose the people whom you think would be the best leaders. In order to make our country better, citizens need to exercise their right to vote. Choosing new leaders is an important part of our democratic system.

Find out what the candidates stand for before you vote Find out what the candidates stand for before you vote. Our government is run by everyday people. They must be chosen by those same everyday people. Do your part to choose good leaders. If you think you can do a good job, you may even want to run for an office.

Helping the environment is also a duty of a good citizen Helping the environment is also a duty of a good citizen. Help protect our natural resources. Find out about ways to conserve energy. Share a ride to reduce gasoline usage. Insulate your home so that you use less power. Do your part to keep our country clean. Recycle plastic, glass, and paper. Pick up litter you see lying on the ground. If we all pitch in, we can keep our country beautiful.

Volunteering is another way to be a good citizen Volunteering is another way to be a good citizen. There are many ways to volunteer. You might be able to help in a small way or a big way. Small ways might include watching a child for a neighbor or feeding animals at the shelter. Or you might choose to do work for a charity group or a church. Any way that you can help will be important to those who need it.

Lastly, a good citizen is also a good neighbor Lastly, a good citizen is also a good neighbor. Respect the rights of others in your neighborhood. Keep your yard and your house neat and clean. Help your neighbors whenever you can. Be polite and friendly. It isn't hard to be a good citizen. Start by remembering the Golden Rule: "Treat others as you would like to be treated." Get involved in your neighborhood and your country. This is the only way to protect the rights and freedom we enjoy.

How can you be a good citizen your rights and responsibilities? and exercise your rights and responsibilities?