Mandatory Public Service for American Citizen

Mandatory Public Service for American Citizen

Introduction

America's role in war against terrorism is not just to protect American citizens. In fact, the sacrifices of American soldiers - whether staying away from their loved ones or losing their lives in foreign lands - are bringing peace to some regions of the world. Today America is proud of its youth because of their sincere participation internationally as well as their role in eradicating crimes inside the country. A new bill, regarding the contribution of all American citizens in nation's development and growth, was presented in Democratic House of Representatives members Charles Rangel of New York and John Conyers of Michigan and Senator Fritz Hollings of South Carolina. These democrats believe that every American is required to serve their country. The main purpose of the bill - Universal Service Act 2007 - is:

“To require all persons in the United States between the ages of 18 and 42 to perform national service, either as a member of the uniformed services or in civilian service in furtherance of the national defense and homeland security, to authorize the induction of persons in the uniformed services during wartime to meet end-strength requirements of the uniformed services, and for other purposes.” (Rangel, 2010).

The bill has not yet approved by the congress. However, in view of this bill, citizens should feel their citizenship obligations. The bill requires American youth to serve in either military or civil services for two years. They are required to do more than casting vote and participate in an informed way in building stronger nation. The essence of the bill is to prepare citizens to do their part of job, which not just includes serving the country but also sacrificing in public interests. Further, this approach also motivates citizens to make collective efforts to combat country's problems.

Discussion

As far as serving in military in concerned, it may include youth participation in military programs, Peace Corps and AmeriCorps. It is also assumed that the bill would allow youth to participate in education or health programs that would further improve America's education and health care system. The bill also gives discretion to the President to select number of people to implement the program. Although, Charles Rangel has tried many times to present the bill since 2003, it is a fact that the bill could not pass so far due to criticism from different political or social circles. Many people still oppose it, primarily because they believe in the right to choose how to live their lives. It is a fact that, many young people realize their national character or obligations and volunteer to join American military services. AmeriCorps can be seen as the biggest example of national service that provides that mobilize youth to participate in different programs including tutoring children, building homes, cleaning up the environment and helping affected people in disasters. In addition, AmeriCorps members work with more than 2,100 government and other nonprofits organizations. The main motive behind the youth participation ...