WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Engine of Democracy, a coalition of organizations representing more than 6 million jobs related to the American automotive industry, has launched a “call-to-action” website, www.TheEngineOfDemocracy.com. The site provides facts about the U.S. auto industry and interactive tools to give Americans the ability to weigh in on the debate over the industry’s future. It contains information about the U.S. auto industry, including facts about vehicle product awards, examples of fuel economy leadership and state-by-state details on the industry’s economic impact. The site also features information about an “advocacy event” scheduled to take place Dec. 5 on Capitol Hill.
While no specific names are given, the website was reportedly built by companies and individual citizens who say they are impacted by the future of America’s car companies. The site includes postings from citizens who are traveling to Washington on Dec. 5 to meet with Congress to show support for the federal loans program, and provides a forum for Americans to express their opinions on the site by sharing stories, photos and videos. Finally, it enables visitors to communicate directly with their elected officials and the media to show their support.
The site includes features to allow visitors to email and text message information to friends and colleagues, and provides updates on the Washington advocacy event through the Twitter address, "EngineDemocracy." It will document the journey through a video and photos that will be posted on YouTube and Flickr.
"Millions of people depend on the automotive industry," said Carl Galeana, an automobile dealer in several states and a coalition organizer. "We want to keep them informed, help them tell their stories and make sure their voices are heard as part of the national debate on the future of this vital sector."
The Engine of Democracy coalition includes automotive supplier and dealership employees, affiliated organizations and individual men and women who are concerned about the future of the domestic auto industry and what it means for America’s economy and security. The group says it is self-funded and receives no funds from Chrysler, Ford or General Motors.
