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In the United States, we admire well-spoken words. Noble words established the foundation of our government and society. From the Declaration of Independence: "We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are create equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness." The Pledge of Allegiance affirms: "One nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." These eloquent words ring with truth. When children recite them, committing them to memory, it is in the hope that these truths will become an inextricable part of all Americans. But words alone do not make our country great. The power of diversity united by a common dream of freedom and justice promotes greatness. Only just conduct, however, will guarantee greatness. When immigrants come to America, they must learn our truths in order to become citizens. The first time new citizens recite the Pledge of Allegiance, it is an extremely powerful moment, both for them, and for the country that welcomes their contributions. A naturalized citizen is as much a part of our country as any born here; after all, the only ones who were't at some point immigrants to our shores are the Native Americans. Often, naturalized citizens treasure our noble truths precisely because they know what it is to exist without them. Such devotion should not be repaid with hatred and violence from other Americans. In the wake of the September 11 attack, Americans must look into their hearts and read the words engraved therein. We must remember that, regardless of birthplace, once a person becomes a citizen, they are just as American as anyone else, and they, too, were attacked that day. When we perpetuate violence against another because of their religion or country of birth, we turn our backs upon the core values of our country. While many of us feel helpless and angry, when we spread that fear by lashing out at American Muslims or gays or pagans or what have you, we become terrorists ourselves. Upon signing the Declaration of Independence, Benjamin Franklin said, "We must hang together, or surely we will hang separately." His words are just as important and wise today. To survive the future, we must learn to work harmoniously with all who seek the same vision: liberty and justice for all. Barbara
Fisher
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