In a word, I feel the US national anthem doesn’t fit. I know things have
changed since I was a student there in the 70’s, but .Speaking in terms of sporting events skews the discussion. The answer
should be the same for any campus event, not just sports. Ask: What
expressions of nationalism/patriotism are appropriate on campus?
To me it seems like this change in Goshen policy comes at a time when
the continuation of the peace witness is needed more than ever. I really
don’t agree with anyone who says this will open the door for dialogue
with those who are visiting the campus. Please explain how this might
happen. In our country, war is no longer intermittent. It is a constant
national state. Ads using military images, the military promoting itself
in the public media and military electronic games are commonplace in our
country. Piece by piece the soul of America is getting eaten by the
military industrial complex.
Why is doesn’t it fit? To me Goshen College is an international
institution, representing people/ideas/Christians from all over the
world. The “Culture for Service” motto originates in the idea that if we
are educated we will be better able to serve. And if we are serving
Christ, that service is to be for anyone in the world, not just the
United States.
Politically, the only way this change could be considered at this time
is that the strong personalities on the staff and faculty who would
create an uncomfortable atmosphere are no longer around. Someone not
fearful for their job/tenure needs to stand up and say that this move
doesn’t fit with the way Goshen College witnesses to the world.
As a former student and Christian, I truly hope the decision to play is
reviewed and rescinded in time for the next academic year starting in
the fall of 2010.
David R Hiebert
Scottdale , PA
