Elliot's American Creed

My American creed is about the belief that everyone should be treated equally and that America works hard to give everyone an equal chance. This belief is very important to me and shapes how I see my country. Here are four reasons why I believe in this creed.

1. The Declaration of Independence

The first piece of evidence is the Declaration of Independence. This important document says, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." These words show that equality is a core value of America. Even though the country has faced challenges in living up to these words, they set a high standard and remind us that everyone should be treated the same.

2. The Civil Rights Movement

The second piece of evidence is the Civil Rights Movement. During the 1950s and 1960s, African Americans and their allies fought against racism and for equal rights. Important laws like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 helped end legal discrimination and made sure everyone had the right to vote. These laws show that America is committed to treating everyone equally and giving everyone the same opportunities.

3. Affirmative Action Policies

The third piece of evidence is affirmative action policies. These policies were created to help fix past injustices and give more opportunities to people from marginalized groups. For example, affirmative action in college admissions has helped increase the number of minority students in higher education. This shows that America is trying to level the playing field and give everyone a fair chance to succeed, no matter where they come from.

4. Support for Immigrant Communities

The fourth piece of evidence is America's support for immigrant communities. The United States has a long history of welcoming immigrants and giving them opportunities to build better lives. Programs like Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) provide protections and opportunities for young immigrants who were brought to the country as children. By allowing them to work, study, and live without fear of deportation, America shows its commitment to giving everyone a fair chance, regardless of their background.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my American creed is based on the belief that everyone should be treated equally and that America strives to provide equal opportunities for everyone. This belief is supported by the principles of the Declaration of Independence, the achievements of the Civil Rights Movement, the impact of affirmative action policies, and the support for immigrant communities. These examples show that America is committed to creating a society where everyone has the chance to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential. While there is still work to be done, the pursuit of equality and opportunity remains a key part of the American experience and inspires my belief in this creed.