According to Wikipedia, a person who has “membership in a political community” and has “rights to political participation” is a citizen. A student is “anyone who is learning.” So what exactly is a citizen- student? It is very possible to be a citizen- student just as I am and most people in our class are. Both of my parents were born and raised in Mexico, coming to the United States at a young age. I was born here in America along with my two younger brothers. I was automatically a citizen, and soon became a citizen- student when I started school. Most people take their citizenship for granted. I however don’t. Even though my father has become a citizen through naturalization, my mother is still a complete illegal immigrant. The process of becoming a citizen is extremely long and complicated, even though my mother has been living in the United States for over 20 years now, paying taxes and all.
American citizens should feel obligated to their country to vote. Most people don’t see this as a huge privilege. In most countries the citizens aren’t even given the right to vote. We not only take our citizenship for granted, but also our voting right. I will be voting on November 4th, 2008. I have the right to make a difference, and I will use it. I won’t deny that I need to become more informed on all the political issues and candidates, but I will be informed by then and make my decision.
I will never be serving in the military. It is not necessary for me to serve. I do, however, feel obligated to help those who are and support in any way. It takes a lot for someone to risk their life for their country and people. I try helping in any way that I can, whether it is sending money to the troops or sending old phones, etc. My family has always donated to veterans. And yes, I do thank the random soldiers that I see in the airport. =]
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Your family has an appreciation of citizenship that most Americans do not, as you suggest. Does this mean that you take your rights and responsibilities for granted less than many of your peers? I like the specific examples that you give of how your civic contribution in lieu of serving in the military. But why is it that that burden falls on the shoulders of those with little opportunities and resources for advancement? Do you think that's right? Or should we consider ways that we can all share the burdens of the country?
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