FROM THE NATIONAL EASTERN DIVISION CHAIR OF THE AMERICANISM PROGRAM 2024-2025 LEADING THE WAY American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters: 3450 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268-1334 ADD EMAIL HERE@ALAforVeterans.org | www.ALAforVeterans.org | www.ALAFoundation.org
As we prepare to observe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, January 20th, let us honor his legacy. We know the history and the impact he had on our country and its citizens. A brief reminder, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was established in 1983. It was seventeen years later before it was recognized by all fifty states! Even with ongoing opposition, fortunately, in 1994 Congress designated Martin Luther King Day as a National Day of Service. So now is the time for the American Legion Auxiliary to step up and honor MLK’s legacy through our mission of Service Not Self. “No work is insignificant. All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity” (Martin Luther King) “Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” (Martin Luther King) So, let’s be great! How can we do this you ask? Here are a few suggestions. Gather your Unit members and include your Juniors and organize a patriotic holiday event or volunteer for local patriotic events in Auxiliary attire and network with prospective members. Recognize your patriotic neighbors! Create certificates and visit businesses and/or homes in your area and thank them for flying the American Flag properly. Although schools are closed on MLK Day, plan a nearby day to visit your local schools and teach flag etiquette. There are many tools available through Emblem Sales to assist with this project. Work with other Auxiliary committees to provide clean up services, assist with VA Stand Downs, and ALA Girls State recruiting. The American Legion Oratorical season is upon us. Coordinate with your Posts to volunteer. Perhaps provide refreshments for after the presentations for the contestants, volunteers and audience. Offer to serve as a timer or chaperone. Attend the various levels of the contest as an audience member. If you haven’t done this before, you will be quite impressed with the knowledge and skills of these students. And you will certainly learn more about the Constitution.
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