As the President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut, I want to affirm our commitment to the principles that sustain a vibrant economy: the rule of law, a robust democracy, and the stability that fuels our region. These foundations empower American innovation and enterprise, maintaining our role as a global leader.
To this end, the Chamber supports the following fundamental principles:
- Safe, fair, and secure elections where every eligible citizen can vote with confidence in the process and its results.
- Respect for certified election outcomes, upholding the rule of law and democratic values.
- The peaceful transfer or continuation of power at all levels of government, safeguarding the integrity of our institutions.
These principles are not abstract ideals; they are the very pillars of a thriving democracy and economy. Undermining them disrupts trust in our institutions and can hinder both social progress and economic growth.
In alignment with these beliefs, the Chamber encourages businesses to support their employees in exercising their right to vote by offering paid time off to do so. Voting is not only a personal right but a civic responsibility, and by facilitating this, we promote a culture of active and engaged citizenship that strengthens our community.
As an immigrant to this country many years ago, I remember in great detail how excited I was to vote for the first time. Having arrived at age 19 and waiting for over five years to become a citizen, I felt that I had fulfilled a long-awaited desire to finally become an American. It was an exciting moment that I remember fondly. I remember writing home to my parents to let them know that I had become a U.S. citizen. I expect that most immigrants feel likewise.
Today, however, hyper-partisanship and rising polarization threaten the unity and strength of our country. Not only do these divisions weaken our domestic stability, but they also leave us vulnerable to adversaries abroad. This issue affects everyone — not just the business community — and touches every aspect of our society, including economic opportunity and social cohesion.
Most Americans share the desire to transcend this polarization. We all want to live in a society where critical issues are addressed through respectful and constructive dialogue, free from intimidation or hostility. As business and community leaders, we understand that we must lower the intensity of rhetoric and eliminate actions that could lead to discord or even political violence.
Respectful political debate is what separates this great nation from many others, where respectful dissent and open dialogue are met with retribution and even imprisonment. We must lead by example and return to a position of global leadership by showing that preserving democracy rises above all other priorities and party affiliation.
Our freedom to vote must never be taken for granted. I urge all eligible voters to cast their ballots, and I urge all businesses and institutions to encourage voting by facilitating this responsibility for all employees.
Tony Sheridan is President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut.