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.
Pure rayon shrinks when washed or dried if it has not been pretreated when manufactured. Rayon is a delicate fabric that was originally designed as a dry clean only material. Blended rayon with a 30 percent or more ratio of polyester is normally safe in the washer or dryer.