Americanism
The Auxiliary believes that the principles and ideals upon which the American republic was founded, and for which American blood has been shed, are still the cornerstones of our democracy and, as such, should be safeguarded for the welfare of future generations.
The Auxiliary is working to keep patriotism a part of the education of every child, a patriotism which teaches love of America through a knowledge of the people who made it great, and an understanding of the principles which have guided its course. The organization endeavors to bring Americans a fuller realization of their responsibilities as citizens. This will ensure that the American ideal of democratic government will not fail. A multiplicity of problems confront our government, such as the rapid expansion of our populations and the world situation in which America must be the guiding force.
The Americanism work of the Auxiliary includes all activities tending to perpetuate American ideals and to uphold the principles of American democracy. The security of America lies in a citizenry in whose minds and hearts is ingrained a true understanding of and love for those ideals and principles upon which the nation was founded; a citizenry awake to the duties of citizenship and willing to perform these duties even at the cost of great personal sacrifice. Americanism work is largely educational in character and is usually divided into three phases: work with the youth, the adult, and the community. All matters pertaining to the flag or patriotic education are rightly classified as Americanism activities.
The Auxiliary is working to keep patriotism a part of the education of every child, a patriotism which teaches love of America through a knowledge of the people who made it great, and an understanding of the principles which have guided its course. The organization endeavors to bring Americans a fuller realization of their responsibilities as citizens. This will ensure that the American ideal of democratic government will not fail. A multiplicity of problems confront our government, such as the rapid expansion of our populations and the world situation in which America must be the guiding force.
The Americanism work of the Auxiliary includes all activities tending to perpetuate American ideals and to uphold the principles of American democracy. The security of America lies in a citizenry in whose minds and hearts is ingrained a true understanding of and love for those ideals and principles upon which the nation was founded; a citizenry awake to the duties of citizenship and willing to perform these duties even at the cost of great personal sacrifice. Americanism work is largely educational in character and is usually divided into three phases: work with the youth, the adult, and the community. All matters pertaining to the flag or patriotic education are rightly classified as Americanism activities.
Patriotic Education
Every Citizen should have a thorough knowledge and understanding of the Constitution of the United States. Therefore, the Auxiliary has a very definite objective in emphasizing through its Americanism program the teachings of good citizenship.
Five-Point Program
Active Americanism in the home; active Americanism in the Unit; active Americanism in youth groups; active Americanism in adult groups; and active Americanism in our community.
Home
Revitalize our personal patriotism. Be able to answer "What kind of American am I?" Take an interest in our country's affairs. Express our belief in our love for America in our words and deeds. Inspire children and young people in our homes and schools to develop fine characters, high ideals and a sincere appreciation of our heritage. Be tolerant in thought and deeds towards others. Vote intelligently after careful study of candidates and issues.
Unit
Appoint an active Americanism chairman. Sponsor study classes for the Constitution, Declaration of Independence, flag etiquette, and great American characters. Plan a patriotic conference. Observe patriotic holidays. Display the flag, keep it clean, and fold it properly. Distribute flag etiquette brochures.
Youth Groups
Present Americanism awards in schools. Sponsor debates and essay contests. Present flags to schools. Encourage formation of student councils in elementary schools. Present records and/or tapes of The Star-Spangled Banner to schools. Sponsor Boy and Girl Scout Troops.
Adult Groups
Sponsor citizenship classes and present flag codes, American Creed, and small American flags to new citizens. Hold Americanism meetings and community forums. Place flag study course in night schools for foreign-born.
Community
Plan Town Meetings and other study groups, presenting both sides of a question. Help with community observance of patriotic holidays. Present flags where needed. Use both printed and electronic media when presenting Americanism programs. Watch for subversive group activities and report to proper authorities. Visit local government groups in action and slow interest in school boards, City Councils, County Boards, and Town Meetings. Plant trees as memorials and study conservation programs.
Cooperative Effort
The Americanism program of The American Legion embraces a multiplicity of activities. It necessitates real, honest, unselfish effort on the part of all members of The American Legion. The members of the Auxiliary can effectively make patriotism a personal matter and they can select and successfully carry out projects adaptable to the needs of the communities
Spirit of Youth Fund
This fund was established by the American Legion Auxiliary to support programs for young people. Tax deductible contributions from individuals, organizations, and estates are the basis of this permanent endowment fund for youth. The funds are expended for programs that benefit the youth of our nation and to enrich those programs which already exist. Two such programs are the Americanism Youth Conference conducted each spring for the Auxiliary by Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania and the four year "Spirit of Youth Scholarship" for Junior Members.
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