Ripon College Days

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day has come and gone. To celebrate one of America's greatest leaders a Golden Hour poetry reading will be held Feb. 7. Despite this one event, the lack of campus reflection on this man serves as an example for a pattern of how most major holiday-days days set aside for remembering those who helped shape this great nation-have been reduced to a parade and a day off for your local postman. We on the College Days staff fear this alarming trend robs these giants of American history the recognition they so rightly deserve.

The national holidays of remembrance in this country are numerous and rightly so. America was built on the backs of free thinkers and people who fought earnestly for honor and equality. Yet the way in which we celebrate these holidays, and more importantly, the people for whom the holidays are celebrated, seems to be forgotten. These holidays were created to set aside a day in which we as Americans should honor the men and women who helped mold and shape this country into what it is today. Too often it seems we just say "Hooray" and then set aside their memory until the next time the holiday comes around, without ever taking the time to reflect on what the hero accomplished and what they stood for. All we ask is that our students honestly reflect on the change these people pushed for and its tremendous effect.

While it is cliche to state that those who fail to learn history are doomed to repeat it, it is ridiculous to assume that one person's contribution is enough to sustain such great social change. The heros of American history dedicated their lives to the betterment of society not only for their generation, but with the hope that their children will enjoy the liberty they fought for. These leaders built, forged, molded, and shaped this country to its present day form. Men such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Abraham Lincoln and George Washington are at the core of today's America. They moved and created this country. This appreciation for the past requires little more than to reflect on the ideals for which these leaders stood and act in accordance with those values.

We should remember all who have taken a stand for what is fundamentally right. Leaders are the force of change who shape societies, empower the oppressed and challenge the status quo. Major change in our society occurs only through the full dedication of even the most ordinary person to a cause. This steadfast dedication in the face of all odds is what elevates that otherwise ordinary person to legendary status. And that is something that has to be respected and honored not just once a year, but every day.

Article Tools