It means you get involved. Technically, our local forms of government are not participatory democracies. Officially, participatory democracy is direct democracy, in the sense that all citizens are actively involved in all important decisions.
It shouldn't if washed with gentle care. Rayon is a cellulose fabric and like most cellulose fabrics, it may shrink when washed. If the manufacturer has indicated the garment should be dry cleaned only, do not push your luck. If it is hand-washable though, you can use the gentle cycle on your washing machine and Woolite to get the job done.
1 Relaxation shrinkage happens when fabric is exposed to liquids or excessive moisture. When fabric is placed in tepid water, the fibers will relax and if the fabric is absorbent (natural fibers like cotton, silk or linen) or modified to be absorbent (man-made performance fibers), the fibers will swell.