The American's Creed

This daughter joined the DAR about three years ago. Like all daughters, I was introduced to the tradition of reciting "The American's Creed" as part of every meeting. I compared the ritual to the reciting of the Phi Mu Creed during my college sorority days and while I knew it was important and had meaning, felt the meaning was isolated to the organization and it's members.

I was wrong.

This daughter attended her very first State DAR Conference this past weekend where I both observed and participated in several recititations of "The American's Creed." I began to pay closer attention to the words, their meaning and the pride with which this congregation of women pronounced this creed - - most from memory.

I believe in the United States of America as a government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed;

I believe. I believe in the United States of America. Such a simple statement. How often we bicker and moan about our government and our country. But just like a child, hearing the simple statement I believe in you - - it seems to empower you and all who hear it that you can do more, go farther, be stronger, be remarkable. Just by believing.

a democracy in a republic; a soverign Nation of many soverign States; a perfect Union; one and inseparable;

This is such a clear and concise statement regarding our form of government which is often misinterpreted even by those elected to serve in it. We do hold democratic elections to select those who will represent us in government. But with the simple act of using those representatives to make decisions in goverment, we became a republic.

established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes.

Humanity was an interesting word choice here. And perhaps a reason why I always thought that "The American's Creed" was unique to the DAR. The DAR spends countless hours and resources on issues of humanity. While the DAR is most certainly interested in the preservation of history related to the American Revolution and all things connected, the DAR is likewise just as strong an advocate for today's modern warrior. Without taking a position regarding the current conflicts in Iraq and Afganistan, the DAR has helped countless servicemen and women and their families in ways big and small. Humanity - the ability to help without judgement or conviction. That's my definition of humanity and the DAR embodies this at all levels, teaching even it's youngest members this important lesson that will continue to grow an even stronger and better America.

I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it; to support its Constitution; to obey its laws; to respect its flag; and to defend it against all enemies.

After hearing "The American's Creed" recited so many times with such eloquence and conviction, I was curious to learn more. Using my handy dandy little laptop, I surfed the web and discovered that this creed was the result of a nationwide contest. The purpose of the contest was to create the "briefest possible summary of American political faith and yet be founded upon the fundamental things most distinctive in American history and tradition."

The creed is interwoven with familiar phases and beliefs that harken to familiar historical documents such as the preamble to the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence and oratories from American statesmen such as President Abraham Lincoln and Daniel Webster.

It was announced in 1918 that Mr. William Tyler Page was the winner who wrote the 100 word creed. With his contest winnings, Mr. Page purchased Liberty Bonds which were being sold to support World War I - the war to end all wars - and promptly donated the bonds to his church. How absolutely fitting.