CAMDEN – Joining five other communities in Maine, as well similar groups convening across the country, citizens gathered Jan. 6 after dark on the Camden Village Green for a Vigil for Democracy. With lighted candles, signs, and anchored by American flags, they articulated a common mission to defend democracy.

A series of speakers, ranging from a representative from the Maine League of Women Voters to a Common Defense veteran recently returned from Afghanistan, took to the podium for brief remarks.

The occasion was to reflect on the anniversary of the attack by armed militants on the nation’s Capitol in Washington, D.C. Other Maine communities holding similar vigils included Bucksport, Bangor, Portland and Newcastle.

“We, the people, must be the defenders of democracy,” said one speaker.

Use your voice with legislators, in the media, on social media, he said. Be active, translate passion into local causes, organize and mobilize, reach out and find common cause.

“It takes all of us to be defenders of democracy,” he said.