Auxiliary’s Americanism Program
The purpose of the Americanism program is to promote patriotism and responsible citizenship.
Key Program Statements
- Be knowledgeable on flag history, etiquette, and proper disposal methods, and promote the observation of patriotic holidays so your community will look to the ALA for information.
- Increase participation in the Americanism Essay Contest.
- Participate in the promotion of The American Legion Americanism programs.
The Auxiliary’s Americanism program promotes patriotism and responsible citizenship and strives to uphold and promote American ideals and the principles of democracy. The goal of the Auxiliary’s Americanism program is to educate every citizen on the fundamentals of American government, the Bill of Rights and the value of active, informed involvement in the home, in the Auxiliary organization and in the community. Most successful Americanism programs are cooperative efforts between an Auxiliary Unit and its community. Contributions donated to the Spirit of Youth Foundation by individuals, organizations and members’ estates, benefit young people through such programs as the Americanism Youth Conference at Freedom’s Foundation and the National President’s Scholarship program.
The Citizens Flag Alliance is an apolitical, non-partisan confederation of organizations and individuals who wish to protect the United States flag from acts of physical desecration. The Citizens Flag Alliance’s goal is to pass a Constitutional amendment prohibiting flag desecration. The American Legion Auxiliary joined this effort in 1994 due to its belief that the flag is unique, deserving proper respect, care and protection.
Be knowledgeable on flag history, etiquette, and proper disposal methods, and promote the observation of patriotic holidays so your community will look to the ALA for information.
- Work with The American Legion to increase respect for the flag in your community, including the proper way the American flag should be flown.
- At schools and organizations, teach proper handling, displaying, and respect for the American flag, as well as our National Anthem, and the Pledge of Allegiance.
- Organize a patriotic holiday event or volunteer for local patriotic events in Auxiliary attire and network with prospective members.
- Sign up at https://www.legion.org/flag/246720/sign-american-legion-flag-alerts to receive notifications on when to display the flag at half staff.
- Contact and ask state and federal government representatives to support the flag amendment. To find your representatives, visit https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials.
- Encourage members to participate in and utilize Wreaths Across America patriotic curriculum. For more information, visit https://learn.wreathsacrossamerica.org/teach.
- Recruit others to support the flag amendment by explaining what it is and why it is important. Sign up for The American Legion’s legislative action alerts and follow the flag issues.
- Work with schools and organizations to promote Star Spangled Kids. For more information and resources, visit https://member.legion-aux.org/Member/Committees/Americanism/How-to-Promote-Star-Spangled-Kids.
