Reflecting on the Model Citizen – Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus
Happy Constitution Day and Citizenship Day!
Every September 17, we pause to reflect on the rights and responsibilities that come with being a citizen.
Here in Cincinnati, our very name connects us to this history. The ancient Roman general Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus was called from his plow to lead in a time of crisis, then gave up power and returned to his farm. That humility and service made him known as the “model citizen.”
Centuries later, George Washington followed that example, stepping down after two terms as the first president. His decision set one of the most important traditions in U.S. democracy: the peaceful transfer of power.
These stories remind us that democracy isn’t just shaped by presidents or generals. It reminds us that democracy depends on all of us, the ordinary citizens who vote, volunteer, advocate, and care for our communities.
This year, as we celebrate Constitution Day, we invite you to reflect: What does being a citizen mean to you? How do you live out those responsibilities in your daily life?
Recently The Cincinnatus Association partnered with Democracy and Me, an educational outreach project from Cincinnati Public Radio, on their podcast, Democracy and Z to explore these very questions with local students and civic leaders.
Since its founding in 1920, The Cincinnatus Association has carried forward the legacy of service and civic responsibility, working to improve the quality of life for all in Greater Cincinnati. Our efforts continue today. In 2024, we published The Status of Voting Rights white paper, and this year we passed a resolution opposing statewide legislation that would restrict ballot access through unnecessary citizenship verification and put limits on secure drop boxes.
As we honor Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, we reaffirm our commitment to putting citizens in the heart of democracy, promoting civic participation, and improving the quality of life for all citizens in the Greater Cincinnati region.
Learn more about the work of The Cincinnatus Association.
Related Posts
2026 Spencer Award Recipients Announced
The Cincinnatus Association will present the Eleventh Annual Donald and Marian Spencer Spirit of America Awards, honoring five Cincinnati area businesses and non-profits for promoting a commitment to prioritize serving diverse populations with equity and inclusivity. The awards dinner will be held on May 21, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati. Retired WLWT5 anchor/reporter Courtis […]
Read MoreNominations Accepted
Nominations for the 2026 Donald and Marian Spencer “Spirit of America” Awards are due December 31, 2025. The accomplishments of our award recipients mirror the mission of the Cincinnatus Association – to improve the quality of life for citizens in the Greater Cincinnati region. Award recipients have intentionally shown a commitment to prioritize serving diverse […]
Read More
Schneider Shares Perspective on Civic Organizations
“I really feel strongly about the importance of civic organizations at this current time. I hope we can keep Cincinnatus vibrant and involved. A strong community is never built by accident. It grows because people care enough to come together, to share ideas, and to take action. That’s the power of civic organizations. When we […]
Read More