The Liberty Masons of Clinton County recently submitted the following editorial. It is the hopes of KNS they will continue to share their expertise and attempt to share new civic lessons and educate all of us who needs it including our elected officials. This is part 2 in their series. You can read part 1 here:
https://knsradioonline.com/the-civics-you-n…as-the-sovereign/
Kevin Keith-Owner/GM KNS Radio-/10/20/25
In Part 1, we explored how our government officials swear an oath to uphold the Constitution. Now, let’s dive into the Indiana Constitution to uncover what they swore to and why it matters to you. This is about your power as the sovereign—the ultimate authority in our system. Let’s break it down clearly, starting at the beginning.
The Purpose of Our Government
The Indiana Constitution’s Preamble sets the stage with a bold declaration:
“TO THE END, that justice be established, public order maintained, and liberty perpetuated; WE, the People of the State of Indiana, grateful to ALMIGHTY GOD for the free exercise of the right to choose our own form of government, do ordain this Constitution.”
In plain terms, We the People created the government for three core reasons:
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Establish justice – Ensure fairness and accountability.
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Maintain public order – Keep society stable and safe.
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Perpetuate liberty – Protect our freedom forever.
This is the foundation. The government exists to serve us, not the other way around.
Who Are “The People?”
Article 1, Section 1 of the Indiana Constitution’s Bill of Rights spells it out:
“WE DECLARE, That all people are created equal; that they are endowed by their CREATOR with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; that all power is inherent in the people; and that all free governments are, and of right ought to be, founded on their authority, and instituted for their peace, safety, and well-being. For the advancement of these ends, the people have, at all times, an indefeasible right to alter and reform their government.”
Let’s unpack this:
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Equality: No one is naturally above anyone else. We’re all equal under the law.
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Inalienable Rights: Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are gifts from our Creator, not the government. These rights can’t be taken or given away—they’re yours simply because you exist.
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Inherent Power: All power belongs to the People. The government only has authority because we grant it.
The Government’s Role
The government’s job is clear: secure our peace, safety, and well-being. It exists by our permission and for our benefit. If it fails to deliver—or worse, violates our rights—we have the undeniable right to change or reform it. That’s our power as the sovereign.
The People & The Government: A Recap
Here’s the deal in simple terms:
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We the People are created by God, endowed with inalienable rights.
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The government is created by us, through the Constitution, to:
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Establish justice
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Maintain public order
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Perpetuate liberty
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Secure our peace
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Ensure our safety
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Promote our well-being
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All power rests with us. The government’s authority depends on staying true to these purposes.
When the Government Breaks Trust
The government cannot act against its purpose. If it does, it betrays the People and loses its legitimacy. Unfortunately, ignorance or misinformation has allowed government officials to overstep, violating the very rights they’re sworn to protect. This is where you come in. As the sovereign, you have the power to hold them accountable by:
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Educating officials on the law through formal notices.
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Affirming your protected rights via affidavits.
What’s Next?
In Part 3, we’ll zero in on a real issue in our county where government officials have repeatedly violated the People’s rights: Data centers, wind farms, etc. We’ll walk through how to address this using notices and affidavits to seek remedy and restore your authority.
Why This Matters:
You are the sovereign. The government answers to you. Understanding the constitutions empowers you to enforce the promises and protect your rights. Stay tuned for practical steps to take action!