What does the cost of freedom? Who should pay?

After watching the film A Volunteer Army or the Draft?, you are hopefully thinking a little deeper about the issue. I tried to make the connection in class between military service and sacrifice. Certainly most would agree that those that volunteer to serve in our armed forces are making significant sacrifices. So to are their families.

If the coast of freedom must be paid by those willing to sacrifice - to pay the ultimate price - than what obligation does the rest of society have to pitch in and contribute to the cause of securing that freedom? Does citizenship in our country require - if not legally, than morally - some measure of sacrifice?

We talked about society's that have required military service as a condition of citizenship. Should the United States hold its citizens to a similar standard? What would be the advantages and disadvantages of compulsory military service? Think beyond personal advantages and disadvantages. Consider the impact on society as a whole - positive or negative.

Finally, what level of sacrifice would you be willing to endure? What price are you willing to pay to secure the standard of living enjoyed by most Americans?

Remember, keep comments relevant. Keep the debate civil. And, most importantly, have fun!!

Has the "Dream" been realized?

During this third week of January 2009, we both celebrate history and witness history in the making. On Monday, we celebrated Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – remembering the contributions of the civil rights leader. In his most famous speech, delivered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., King spoke of his dream – a dream of racial equality. He spoke at a time when African Americans suffered indignities such as being refused service in restaurants, being forced to ride in the back of public buses, to drink from black only water fountains, and much more. While our country has made great strides in the areas of race relations and racial equality, few can deny that racism still exist – in some areas of the country more than others.

It’s fitting around this time of year to reflect on MLK’s life and work. One question that we often ask is whether or not his dream has been realized. Have we come far enough? Have the barriers to racial equality been torn down sufficiently enough? If King was alive today (he would be 80-years-old this year), would he be satisfied with the progress that has been made? Has King’s dream been realized?

It is, perhaps, especially fitting to ask these questions this year. On Tuesday, one day after MLK Day, our nation’s first African American president was sworn into office. It was not very long ago that it would have been difficult to find someone who believed that this historic event would happen anytime soon. For many it must seem like a huge leap forward for African Americans. Is it? Does the election of Barack Obama signal the achievement of King’s dream? Regardless of who you supported in our last election, you cannot ignore that history has been made. Is the election of Barack Obama an achievement for all African Americans? Does he represent the “Dream” for all Americans of color – black, Hispanic, etc.?

Some have argued that there is no real connection between the election of Obama and the struggles of the average African American. Who’s right, those that see the election of President Obama as a realization of Martin Luther King’s dream, or those that feel we still have a long way to go?

What do you think? Avoid simple answers. Give me real thought. Read the comments of those posting before you. Come back after you post, and continue to keep up with additional posts until the deadline. I want a real conversation. Invite your parents to read the blog, and they can even comment. Enjoy!

Note: I'm including both King's "I Have a Dream" speech and Obama's inaguaral address.