This is Delaware Liberal after all. Conservatives are welcome to debate us, but there are some basic principles we believe in. After Netroots Nation in Austin, Texas last month, liberals and progressives across the country have been writing a “Netroots Platform,” which has recently been released. Over the next few days, I will posting different sections for discussion. I do this because our conservative friends do need to understand us better. Indeed, in response to the statement that “Liberals fear freedom, individual liberty, and their fellow Americans,” Steve Newton said the following:
Liberals define freedom differently that you do; neither side has a monopoly on the word.
Liberals view individual liberty as freedom from want, hunger, and lack of medical care, with the best possible remedies coming from an enlightened public policy that manages the necessary redistribution of some of society’s excess wealth to insure that all people start with a foundational basis of security and prosperity.
For a libertarian, Steve does a good job at defining what liberals are all about. That is not all we are about, though. So without further delay, what follows is a statement of general principles from the Netroots Platform. I will post the sections about foreign policy, national security, and the economy in the coming days.
The American Dream begins with every American’s right to be healthy, educated, and to live in a safe community and a clean environment. We believe vibrant economy is built with American jobs, well-paid productive workers, innovation, and the entrepreneurial spirit. We believe responsibility, honesty, and compassion are fundamental to a successful nation and that efficient government, effective public investments, and fiscal responsibility serve our citizens best.
We believe protecting personal liberty begins with the right of every citizen to enjoy their full civil liberties with equal access to opportunity and justice, We believe in the values of freedom, fairness, and respect. We believe the cornerstone of democracy is honest elections, transparent government and a deep commitment to our nations’ Constitution and Bill of Rights.
We believe leadership with global cooperation is the best way to secure peace and acting on environmental challenges strengthens our nation and protects the Earth. We believe the power of the United States must be used honestly and wisely.
We believe America’s promise of prosperity, liberty and security belongs to all Americans and that our nation’s strength lies in a shared commitment to these ideals.