The meaning of Citizenship supersedes casual awareness that can be taken easily for granted. Citizenship goes beyond being born in a country, naturalization, rights, privileges and allegiance. Its meaning is one of the most significant reasons why education is required and why life-long learning is encouraged. Our citizenship can determine the quality of our lives. It is our voice to validate and advocate for life itself. Therefore, citizenship goes far beyond any civic’s class and/or political party.
Its meaning is determined by each of us as we see ourselves and each other. Do we think of ourselves as citizens of a region of the country, a state, or see ourselves as citizens of a world beyond flags and borders. We can do both without compromising our oath to our country and to each other as Americans.
This is why when needed we take up arms to defend others far from our shores. We do so to defend their humanity and their right to be free citizens to determine their destiny.
Citizenship is learned by ancestors, family and a social curriculum that mentors the universality of its meaning – its connections to next door neighbors, those across town and states.
Citizenship is not static but dynamic – ever morphing. With each incoming generation, Citizenship advocates for the authentication and amplification of its founding principles as declared and affirmed by the Declaration of Independence and Constitution. Citizenship and Democracy are connected by the principles of social justice, rule of law, inclusivity, equity and inalienable rights.
Citizenship leans into the discomfort of critically studying history in order to avoid repeating needless inhumanity. Citizenship provides a magnanimous, empathic and respectful voice to those who seek asylum, sanctuary and protection.
Citizenship encourages civil discourse and debate in order to arrive at compromise and consensus for the greater good. Citizenship is our moral compass.
There are some commonalities among Americans. Some say that taxes and death are two.
My dad provided another that kept me humble – still does.
He simply said, “Just remember that your ‘mierda’ (poop) stinks just as much as anyone else’s.”
By the way, yours does too. But please, don’t make a pie out of it!
When, how and why do we learn about our citizenship?
Is it an absolute construct?
Is it ever morphing, authenticating and amplifying its essence, meaning and context?
Is it all about privileges or does it come with life-long responsibilities?
Is it regional, national and/or global?
Does it seek veracity and credibility?
These are some tough critical questions that perhaps need review – more often than just every two or four years.
Athletics and sports are part of our social-cultural matrix. They are our communal national passion. We love our sports and marvel at human athleticism.
Can we, connect our fanaticism with athletics to our responsibilities to our Democracy as citizens?
Can we turn March Madness to a daily passion to enhance the quality of life, inclusivity and equity for each fan and citizen?
History beckons us to do so.