Ah, Valentine’s Day. The season of love, affection, and overpriced chocolates. But here at Civic Nebraska, we like to think a little bigger. That’s why every year, we whip up a batch of democracy-themed valentines for you to share with the people you adore, the people you tolerate, and yes, even the people who make your eye twitch in public meetings. Because what’s more romantic than a well-functioning democracy?
So, go ahead: Print ‘em, send ‘em, stick ‘em on a colleague’s desk, or slip one under the door of your favorite elected official. What do you have to lose? (Besides faith in humanity, we mean. But that’s why we keep doing this.) Share the love, spread the civic spirit, and let’s keep democracy alive — one cheesy pun at a time.
Here’s one tailor-made for the Gen Xers who know that Wayne’s World wasn’t just a movie, it was a cultural reset. Nothing says romance like 1990s pop culture references, a deep appreciation for presidential history, and suggestive wordplay. Scha-wing!
Here’s a nod to the art of the long talk. Often dismissed as tedious or off-topic, filibustering is one of the highest forms of representation an elected leader can provide. After all, holding the floor isn’t just about stalling; it’s about standing up, speaking out, and ensuring that every voice (even the ones going on at 10 pm) gets heard. Share with someone who knows that democracy isn’t always fast – but it’s always worth the fight.
Severance’s Mark S., our favorite reluctantly compliant corporate drone, has a Valentine’s Day message that cuts through the fog: Stay in the fight. If there’s one thing autocrats and authoritarians hate, it’s public memory. They want us to forget, move on, and let the past slip quietly into the void. But democracy thrives on documentation — remembering, chronicling, and refusing to allow those in power to rewrite history. So whether you’re keeping receipts, taking notes, or just refusing to look away, this one’s for you.
Consider this your gentle nudge to put the phone down. Democracy isn’t built in the comments section; it happens face to face, person to person, in real space. And besides, that much blue light before bed? Bad for your sleep and your sanity, not to mention your love life. So take a deep breath, log off, and maybe — just maybe — talk to the person next to you instead.
