The basic idea of democracy is the empowerment of the individual, in effort to form governmental policy. But do you feel empowered today? Do you feel like, as an individual, you have an influence on your legislator’s actions? There have been many occasions when my desire to make a change was insatiable, but I felt alone- like a man trying to move a mountain, and perhaps we all have.

In the case of Savannah Rose Walters, there was no such intimidation. Aware of an impending energy crisis, the 9 year old Walters developed a small publicity campaign aimed at fuel conservation. Oh, and she learned about democracy on the way. Walters began in 2002 by distributing flyers and informational material at her hometown train station. The educational materials urged motorists to keep their tires inflated and monitor their pressure regularly.
The numbers are compelling; during a NPR interview, Walters states 4-12 million gallons of gas are wasted every day by Americans with under-inflated tires. With these numbers and other statistics in her arsenal, Walters convinced Firestone, Sears and Goodyear to donate tire gauges for free distribution. Again, we’re talking about a girl that, at this time, had yet been to middle school.

You may ask ‘why would these three companies collaborate on this campaign? It seems contradictory to their business plan.’ You may discover a few reasons, but it boils down to consumers holding companies accountable. Consumers cause companies to be innovative, progressive and helpful, as the companies must survive. Likewise, if we place equal pressure on the careers of politicians, we may evoke change.

It’s all about becoming active in democracy. Walters wasn’t afraid to become involved, make her voice heard. She sent multiple inquiries to congressional representatives and even our Vice President. And wouldn’t you know, a project so benign and politically unmotivated elicited no response from Cheney’s office. Incredible. If Walters would have sent a letter saying ‘Mr. Cheney, I admire your diplomacy and uncanny business acumen,’ she would have likely received a monogrammed picture of a grimacing man and a thank you.

Instead, Walters found only a letter a year later apologizing for the Vice President’s utter disregard for the democratic process- that’s all.
Her fortunes faired better with her senator, Mel Martinez, R- Florida. He did not return a letter, but eventually after a circumstantial encounter, Martinez granted Walters an interview, during which the girl only received something of an ‘oh, okay, thanks for your input.’ Did the representative, and I use the title loosely, make any effort to encourage the agenda of Walters or offer help? According to Walters, he did not.

My purpose is to convey how an individual CAN make a difference. Despite the short-comings of our political process, Walters achieved results. Over 10,000 individuals received free tire gauges. Furthermore, her publicity achieves results. I know I added a little air to my tires shortly after hearing the broadcast interview.

Now 14, Walters shows no sign of stopping. The only thing she does exhibit is a desire to help, and make America more efficient- more livable. Follow her example; become involved in the process and convey your support or disdain for decisions made by your representatives. Introduce new ideas. Perhaps you will receive more attention than Walters. No matter what, know what your representatives stand for and hold them accountable.

And if you get no help from your representatives, join Savannah Walters and start a campaign of your own initiative. And of course, check those tires.