The Declaration of Interdependence: Equality and Democracy!

We are all one.

The Declaration of Independence is in reality a Declaration of Interdependence based on human equality, the foundation of democracy whereby we have our inalienable rights. The way to destroy a democracy is to practice rampant inequality. Appreciating and celebrating our interdependence enables us to honor equality and preserve our democracy.

Part I - includes 16 "real Life" stories about personal experiences of inequality (racial, gender, religious, ethnic, social and financial prejudices). Each story is followed by comments and questions from a rearview mirror. What are the causes of inequality? What could bring better outcomes? What must we do to prevent divisiveness and future squandering of human talents?

Part II - is about manifesting equality, using four basic principles identified by Professor Walter Capps from the Danish philosopher N.F.S: Grundtvig, founder of folk schools. The principles are accessible to people of all ethnic and religious backgrounds. Following these principles leads to empowerment, living more fully, freely and happily as illustrated in folk schools throughout the world, including major contributions to civil rights in the United States.

Part III - A new approach, Prose Poetry, explores equality, interdependence, independence and truth.

Joy Marie Ibsen now lives in Lisle, Illinois, where she moved in 2024. Previously she lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico; the Upper Peninsula (Silver City and Trout Creek, Michigan); Evanston and Oak Park, Illinois; and Davenport, Iowa. She has three children, two stepchildren, and five grandchildren. Her husband passed away in November 2022.Ibsen has published several other books: Unafraid I and Unafraid II with 12 new chapters that takes place during the pandemic in 2020-2021. Her other books are: Here and Hereafter, the Eternity Connection; Songs of Denmark, Songs to Live By; and Poetry in the Porkies.