Why is it important to participate in democracy?

The purpose of creating a democratic government is to allow its citizens a say in how the government operates. It's essential that the citizens of a democratic government vote, hold public office and interact with foreign governments. The term "democracy" does not apply in today's world. The world is a complicated place and citizens vote for people who will help the nation grow and prosper. By voting, people select candidates for public office who are charged with making fair & just laws. People do not vote to establish laws per se. They vote for people whose job it is to make the laws & regulations. In a free nation, the citizens can vote poor office holders out and replace them with more competent ones.