And to the Republic, for Which It Stands...

November 2006
Copyright, Jake Miller

Every morning, school children across the nation pledge allegiance to the flag. Of the United States of America. And to the republic. For which it stands. One nation. Under God. With liberty and justice for all.

Most of our pledge is easily deciphered. Except one thing – that troublesome “republic, for which it stands.” So I ask you – what is it that our nation “stands” for?

Certainly it isn’t civic engagement. A lack of citizen participation is rampant across the United States. Every November it seems as though we are reminded all too well. Considering there are 10 million of age voters in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, we find fortune in a midterm election turnout of 4 million. 40%. Even with all the topics of concern this year (gubernatorial election, hot Senate Race, the signing of the General Assembly’s pay raise, etc.), 2006 will be ignored by the larger majority. Since when did ignorance become part of the Pledge?

We cannot rely on a voting increase in the presidential election. History predicts the turnout in 2008 will dance near fifty percent, meaning 150 million Americans will sit on their asses. According to Eric Effron of The Week, our nation ranks a dismal 139th of 194 nations in voter participation, even in our best of years. The greatest democracy in the world? I think not.

The problem is that citizenship is not taught to our youth. Students can put their hand over their heart every morning and say a few words, but democracy’s roots are in participation. Teachers have every general election to explain how the Founding Fathers meant for us to take pride in directing our nation. However, most of nation’s denizens are nothing more than a grumbling audience watching a game of politics that frustrates all and turns off most.

Seemingly, this petulance does not only occupy the sidelines of voting. Volunteers are needed for a variety of causes – from United Way to Habitat for Humanity and even in their child’s organizations – yet most Americans feel too encumbered to participate in the positive portion of America’s agenda. Most would rather stay home and watch prime time television.

The apathy and ignorance must be stopped. Americans need to band together and teach their children just how wonderful a country we have and how rich it is in history and in possibility. It is our duty to lead by example. Talk to your children about making our nation and world a better place. One Nation. With hope.

Every general election we should observe a nation-wide holiday: American Day. All schools and banks should be closed. All workers should have the optional day off. Participate. Gather. Discuss what it means to be an American. How important it is to vote. Protect liberty and justice for all. Defend our way of life before it vanishes before our apathetic eyes. Before the United States is nothing more than a republic that no longer “stands” but rather needs to sit down every few minutes for a breather.