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[b]Life[/b] Each person has the right to the protection of his or her life. [b]Liberty[/b] Liberty includes the freedom to believe what you want, freedom to choose your own friends, and to have your own ideas and opinions, to express your ideas in public, the right for people to meet in groups, the right to have any lawful job or business. [b]The Pursuit of Happiness[/b] Each person can find happiness in their own way, so long as they do not step on the rights of others. [b]Justice[/b] All people should be treated fairly in getting the advantages and disadvantages of our country. No group or person should be favored. [b]Common Good[/b] People should work together for the good of all. The government should make laws that are good for everyone. [b]Equality[/b] Everyone should get the same treatment regardless of where your parents or grandparents were born, race, religion or how much money you have. All people have political, social and economic equality. [b]Diversity[/b] Differences in language, dress, food, where parents or grandparents were born, race, and religion are not only allowed but accepted as important. [b]Popular Sovereignty[/b] The power of the government comes from the people. [b]Patriotism[/b] A devotion to our country and the core democratic values in words and deeds. [b]Rule of Law[/b] Both the government and the people must obey the law. [i]Michigan Department of Education[/i]

The Core Democratic Values