50 Years Ago Citizenship Responsibility and the Citizens League "If communities grew up in orderly fashion, and if governments were efficient and honest without exception, then there would be no need for the Citizens League. Individual citizens would quite properly be unconcerned about civic problems; indeed there would be no problems critical enough to command their attention - except when voting. But American cities grow up like unruly children. They outgrow the garments that were big enough in their infancy, and they often become bolder as their stature increases. Political office holders who seemed efficient and honest as candidates sometimes fall short of expectations in office. JOHN Q. PUBLIC MAY FEEL a vague responsibility to keep an eye on his growing community and its political leadership, but he may feel too small to do the job alone. This frustration intensifies as the community grows; problems of city and county government become more complex and their magnitude appalls him. Her may feel he has discharged his duty when he votes for good candidates, and his civic conscience may be eased by the belief that press and radio are watching the community's welfare. Contributions to the Community Chest and other humanitarian causes may carry him even closer to the sense of fulfillment, so far as his public duties are concerned. But still there are problems, and he wants to solve them. But how can he come to grips with the ills that beset his community, and how can his influence help improve conditions? BY JOINING FORCES with hundred of others who feel as he does, the individual efforts and ideas can accomplish much. By organizing this combined force and channeling it into a well-directed program for civic improvement, an opportunity is provided for individuals to participate in the planning and control of the community's destiny. Such an organization is the Citizens League of Minneapolis and Hennipen County. Not only does it serve as a watchdog of the public welfare; it also serves as an elder statesman of sorts. The League surveys the future and prepares for it with plans based upon the knowledge of experts and specialists and experience of the past and present. WORKING INSIDE THE LEAGUE, John Q. Public can participate in the satisfying occupation of making his community a better place to live. By joining one or more of the committees for research or for action, he can contribute as much as his ability, disposition and time permit. His League membership card becomes his ticket for fuller citizenship in his community." 50 years later, the Leagues original mission and purpose remain the same and as strong as ever. |