1. The Duties and Responsibilities of Citizenship
Chapter 5.1
The Duties and Responsibilities of Citizenship

2. A Citizen’s Legal Duties
Each of us belong to many communities. As community members, we have responsibilities – things we should do or obligations that we fulfill voluntarily.
We also have duties – things we are required to do. We must fulfill duties required by national, state and local gov’ts or face fines or imprisonment.

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Obey the law. Laws serve specific purposes, such as to help people get along, prevent accidents and see that resources are used fairly.
Pay taxes. Gov’t uses money to pay police, pave roads, maintain armed forces and other activities. Income taxes are a percentage of what people earn. People also pay taxes on the sale of goods and services and on property.

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Defend the nation, if called. In the U.S., all men aged must register with the gov’t in case the country needs to draft, or call up, men for military service. Service is currently voluntary.
Serve in court, if called. Every adult citizen must be prepared to serve on a jury or as a witness at a trial if called to do so.
Attend school. Most states require young people to attend school until age 16.

5. Civic Responsibilities
Be informed. Know what the gov’t is doing so that you can voice your opinion. You can learn about issues and leaders by reading print publications, listening to news on the radio or TV, talking to people and searching the Internet. Also, know your rights.

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Speak up and vote. Gov’t exists to serve you, but you must make your concerns known. Call, write or send to your elected representatives. Join a political party or work for a cause. Above all, vote.

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Study candidates and issues before marking your ballot. If the performance of an elected leader falls short, vote for someone else in the next election. Voting ensures a peaceful and orderly change of leadership.
Respect others’ rights. Respect public property and property of others. Vandalism and littering are not only disrespectful, but also crimes.

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Respect diversity. Although you may disagree with people or disapprove of their lifestyles, they have an equal right to their beliefs and practices. Tolerance means respecting and accepting others, regardless of their beliefs, practices, or differences. Diversity is a strength. All citizens are equal and entitled to be treated the same.

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Contribute to the common good. Contribute time, effort and money to help others and to improve community life. Be an active participant in your community.