The American Legion passed Resolution No. 6 to restore patriotism, respect and understanding.
The American Legion National Executive Committee passed a resolution in the spirit of America’s 250th birthday that calls for civic education to be a fixture in America’s classrooms to promote service and patriotism and uphold the ideals of American democracy.
Resolution No. 6, Restoring Civic Knowledge and Patriotism through Education, was originated by the Legion’s Committee on Youth Education and adopted by the NEC May 6 during the organization’s annual Spring Meetings. The resolution was inspired to restore patriotism, foster respect for the U.S. Constitution, inspire public service, understand what freedom is and the cost of it.
“Civic education is essential to the preservation of a republic because a republic depends not on force, but on the informed, responsible participation of its citizens,” said Americanism Commission Chairman Mark Avis in his remarks to the National Executive Committee on May 6 during the organization’s Spring Meetings at National Headquarters in Indianapolis. “Without a citizenry that understands how its system of government works — and why it exists — the structure of self‑government slowly erodes from within.
“The American Legion is committed to Constitutional scholarship and an understanding of American government for all citizens.”
Resolution No. 6 calls upon “federal, state and local governments, as well as school boards and educational institutions, to adopt and enforce rigorous standards in civic education, ensuring that students gain a deep understanding of the U.S. Constitution, the separation of powers, civil liberties, civic duties and the responsibilities of self-governance in a free society.”
The resolution also calls for American Legion posts and Legionnaires to engage with school boards, their state legislatures and educational leaders “to advocate for the ehancement of civic education curricula and to partner in initiatives that inspire civic pride and responsibility.”
The passing of this resolution also celebrates the 50th anniversary of The American Legion Children on Youth Education Committee, which was created in May 1976 by Resolution No. 12. The committee was established to oversee and promote youth education programs of The American Legion and support the Americanism Commission.
Members of the Committee on Youth Education select recipients of The American Legion Legacy Scholarship, Samsung American Legion Scholarship and Educator of the Year, and support Americanism programs including Boys State and Boys Nation, Oratorical Contest, Junior Shooting Sports and Legion Baseball.
- Spring Meetings