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.
It depends on the quality of the rayon. Some lower quality rayons wrinkle badly and all rayon is highly flammable unless treated with flame retardant, so be sure to check that since you are thinking ahead to children. I prefer a cotton blend or wool blend, but have never had the poly/rayon blend myself.