Meaning: The quote "What's wrong is that we are not participating to make this the type of government it needs to be" by Mike Lowry, a politician, captures the essence of civic responsibility and the need for active participation in the democratic process. This quote reflects a call to action for citizens to engage in the shaping of their government and society.

In a democratic system, citizen participation is crucial for the government to function effectively and represent the interests of the people. Lowry's quote emphasizes the idea that when citizens are not actively involved in the political process, the government may not fully serve the needs and desires of the populace. This sentiment highlights the importance of civic engagement and the role of individuals in influencing the direction and nature of governance.

The quote also suggests that there is a collective responsibility among citizens to contribute to the betterment of their government. By acknowledging that something is "wrong," Lowry implies that the current state of affairs is not ideal and requires active involvement to rectify. This challenges individuals to take ownership of their role in shaping the government and working towards positive change.

Furthermore, the quote emphasizes the idea that the type of government a society has is not predetermined or fixed, but rather it is a result of the active participation and engagement of its citizens. This aligns with the fundamental principles of democracy, which places the power and responsibility of governance in the hands of the people.

Lowry's quote also serves as a reminder that a functioning democracy requires ongoing input and involvement from its citizens. It encourages individuals to move beyond simply identifying issues and concerns with the government, and instead, to actively participate in the processes that can bring about positive transformation.

In contemporary society, the quote resonates strongly in the context of increasing political apathy and disillusionment with the political system. Many individuals may feel disengaged or disenfranchised, leading to a lack of participation in political processes. Lowry's quote serves as a poignant reminder that change is only possible when citizens actively participate and work towards making the government more responsive and accountable to the people it serves.

In conclusion, Mike Lowry's quote encapsulates the imperative of citizen participation in shaping the type of government that is needed for a thriving society. It highlights the responsibility of individuals to contribute to the betterment of their government and underscores the notion that an effective and responsive government is a result of active engagement from its citizens. This quote serves as a compelling call to action for individuals to recognize their role in influencing the trajectory of their government and to actively participate in the democratic process.