Responsible Democracy Award given to Mayor S. Fred Simmons

ABERDEEN, Md. -- Today, on the 4th of July, the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, birthday of our freedom, Maryland Shall Issue, Inc. recognizes the Mayor of Aberdeen, Maryland, S. Fred Simmons with the Responsible Democracy award.  The award is given to one who has promoted responsible democracy through word and deed.  In particular, MSI was impressed by Mayor Simmons declaration that he carries a gun because it is his right to do so, and because he may frequent high crime areas.

All of Maryland has become a high crime area, having the highest rate of robbery in the nation for more than the last ten years, and as of last year was essentially tied for the highest murder rate in the nation.  

In a democracy the power of the government rests in the people.  As the Declaration of Independence put it: "... all men are created equal ... endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed."

We the people control the legislatures through our vote.  We the people control our laws through the jury. We the people defend our country through the militia (all able-bodied men 17 to 45 years of age).  We the people protect our communities through the elected sheriff and come to the aid of the sheriff in enforcing the laws through the 'hue and cry' system and the posse comitatus.  

The 'hue and cry' system requires citizens to alert the immediate community when a felony has been committed.  The posse comitatus requires all those 15 years of age and older to be prepared to come to the aid of the sheriff to enforce the laws when needed.  These requirements have been the hallmark of democracies for several thousand years. In interpreting English Common Law (the basis for the laws of our American democracy) the Recorder of London, at about the time of our Declaration of Independence, said:  " It seems ... by the ancient laws of this kingdom, not only as a right, but as a duty; for all the subjects of the realm, who are able to bear arms, are bound to be ready, at all times, to assist the sheriff, and other civil magistrates, in the execution of the laws and the preservation of the public peace."

Responsible people in a democracy take part in the protection and operation of their community and their country.  Responsible people in a democracy pay taxes, vote, serve on juries, defend the country when necessary, and help the sheriff uphold the law.  On this 4th of July, Maryland Shall Issue, Inc. is proud to announce Aberdeen Mayor S. Fred Simmons as recipient of the Responsible Democracy Award.