I agree, leaders can be in any position in the organization, and people in every position can and should contribute. People thrive on making a difference and they need to make their own contributions and take personal responsibility in order to achieve personal and professional happiness. For a variety of reasons some people will not like this more democratic leadership model. It is important to try to include those who object, but eventually they need to come on board, and someone may get hurt in the process. It is also important to know when to cut them out or move on yourself, for your own mental health or the health of the organization. I say this from using this democratic model from all positions in groups, top to bottom.