President's Message: Stepping Up

Scott Buell

With Election Day fast approaching, it’s time to reflect on the crucial role each of us  can play in shaping the future of our country. Voting has always been the foundation of democracy, but it’s particularly crucial this year. The choices we make in the weeks ahead will affect not just our policies but perhaps even the future of democracy itself. Whether it’s supporting candidates, advocating for the rule of law, or helping ensure others are able to vote, our participation has never mattered more. 

As members of the MCBA, we hold a special responsibility to protect the values of justice, fairness, and the rule of law. These principles are at the heart of our legal system, and they are essential to the health of any democracy. In this pivotal election, as we face challenges that test those very principles, it’s important that we each do our part to safeguard the institutions that support democracy. When we engage—whether by volunteering for campaigns, advocating for causes, or educating others about the importance of voting—we’re not just participating in democracy; we’re defending it. 

As Thomas Jefferson said, “The government you elect is the government you deserve.” If we want a government that upholds the values we care about—fairness, justice, and the rule of law—then it’s up to us to ensure those values are represented. Our democracy cannot function effectively without active engagement from its citizens, and that engagement has never been more important. 

Many of us are sports fans—we cheer for our favorite teams, hoping they’ll win, but we know that hoping or even shouting from the comfort of our living rooms doesn’t actually change the outcome of the game. But it’s different for elections. While we can fervently support a candidate or an issue, we can also take real actions that influence the outcome. Unlike sports, our involvement can directly affect whether our preferred candidates win or whether key legislation or propositions pass. Now is the time to get involved and take action. 

There are several ways to be effective before Election Day, no matter how much time you can give. You can volunteer to help with campaigns by knocking on doors, making phone calls, or organizing events to spread the word. If you prefer a more social approach, attending or hosting a fundraiser is a great way to connect with others while raising critical resources for your candidate or cause. You can also take on a hands-on role by becoming a poll worker or poll watcher, ensuring the election runs smoothly and fairly. Social media is a powerful tool for raising awareness—use it to share information and encourage others to vote. Get-Out-the-Vote efforts are also vital—whether it’s encouraging your neighbors or working with an organization to remind people to vote, every effort counts. However you choose to get involved, remember that every action, big or small, helps strengthen our democracy. 

As MCBA members, we are leaders in our local legal community. Our role as attorneys gives us a platform to influence those around us. When we get involved, it sends a powerful message: that civic engagement is not just a responsibility but a priority. We’re not just legal professionals—we’re also community members with a vested interest in the well-being of our society. By stepping up and getting involved, we demonstrate our commitment to protecting the values that underpin our legal system and our democracy. Let’s use our unique position to inspire others to get involved, to vote, and to make their voices heard. The actions we take leading up to Election Day 2024 will help shape the future of our local community, our state and our nation. 

I encourage everyone to find ways to get involved. By working together and staying active in the process, we can ensure our democracy remains vibrant and reflects the values we care about most. Your participation truly matters and can make a difference. 

Looking toward the future of our democracy, it’s crucial that we engage the next generation. I’m excited to share that the MCBA will resume Law Day activities for local high school students next May, led by Director Roni Pomerantz. By engaging students early, we help build a foundation of civic responsibility and encourage them to be active participants in their communities. Getting young people involved is essential to ensuring the future of our democracy remains strong and vibrant. I encourage all of you to get involved and help make this effort a success.