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.
Rayon is a fabric that has the pros of being comprised of natural materials, but its cons stem from its impuissant structure. Rayon has been inexpensively produced from the natural cellulose of plants as an alternative to silk for centuries. It is easily dyed, drapes well and is incredibly versatile.