Jasper County Democrat, Volume 19, Number 60, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 25 October 1916 — A QUESTION OF CITIZENSHIP [ARTICLE]

A QUESTION OF CITIZENSHIP

Just at this time the question of neutrality is claiming much attention, and the matter of the attitude of our government toward the warring nations of the old world is one of deep concern. And owing to the fact that our government has had to settle some knotty international disputes arising from the war, a rather mixed up condition of affairs ie prevailing in this country.

The disputes with Germany and wihi England have developed a proGerman and an anti-German element, a pro-British and an antiBritish. We are told that we must, concede every claim of Germany or lose the sympathy of the GermanAmericans. We are also told we must conciliate Britain or alienate a large Anglo-American element. Now the thought that naturally occurs to the patriotic American is: What is the attitude of these various elements 'toward cur government? Are they American citizens or aliens? That is a question to be settled.

If this pro-German or pro-British element with whose vengeance we are threatened, are aliens —not American citizens—then their likes and dislikes are of small concern to us. If they do not like our attitude let them go back to their own country.

If, on the other hand, they are American citizens, then another and very large question arises. Are they citizens for revenue onlyholding citizenship for the material good to be derived therefrom while their hearts and affections are with the old country? Then the sooner they come out in the open the better for thia country. Are they here to cull the sweets of the land and refuse to take the bitter? Is it their intention to enjoy the protection of our laws and our institutions while their hearts are with those who may at any day become our enemies?

To the man who has crossed the waters to cast his lot in America, citizenship should be the most priceless of his possessions—is so

to the man who is worthy of it. He should be as the bride who leaves her father’s house to cast her lot with ’her Chosen mate—for good or ill. The man who takes citizenship should do so for good or for ill. One sentiment, and only one, should fire the heart of every American, native or naturalized, and that should be: “My country—may she always be right; but my country.” And, with due respect to the opinions of our political jingoes, we believe this is the sentiment of the great mass of our foreign born citizens. We cannot believe they are most solocitous for the welfare of the land they have left than for the land that has afforded them a home and plenty. Naturally, fond memories cluster around the old home, but the allegiance of their manhood lies here. And, should the occasion cajl for it, we believe that allegiance will hold firm.