What does it mean to influence the government? Why should citizens participate in government?

To influence the government means to get their attention so they can fix or change issues in the society they live in. Like how people have protests or go to Town Hall meetings and state what issues they're having with they place they live in or people go around asking for signatures on petitions. Citizens should participate in government because we need to make our country a better and safe and comfortable place for us and future generations to live in.