American Core Ideas…
- “Equal justice” was stated as an essential principle. But it was also realized that slavery, white supremacy, and other serious stumbling stumbling blocks would have to be dealt with over time.
- A form of democracy called a “republic” was uniquely designed into the American system. This was done with the hope that only leaders of “high virtue” would hold high office. Ben Franklyn famously said… “You have a republic if you can keep it!”
- The “Declaration of Independence” made it clear there would be no monarchs, autocrats, or dictators in America.
- “Freedom of speech and the press” were so important to the founders that they were included in the Constitution.
- “We are a nation of immigrants.” From the very start government leaders have made this obvious fact clear.
- “Forming a more perfect union” would require avoiding political and social polarization. It was this fear that caused George Washington to declare himself an Independent… a fear which he warned about again in his farewell address!
- “Access to voting” has always been seen as an important feature of American citizenship.
These core American ideas are what can restore unity to our polarized nation… a prerequisite for regaining international respect, and global leadership.
Larry D. Lauer 