• Give up loyalty to other countries
• Defend the (U.S.) Constitution
• Obey the laws of the United States
• Serve in the military (if needed)
• Serve (help, do important work for) the nation (if needed)
• Be loyal to the United States
The promise new citizens make to be loyal to the United States.
To cut off or end a connection.
A fundamental belief or standard that guides behavior.
DOUGLAS GINSBURG, Federal Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals, D.C. Circuit:
In the Oath of Allegiance, new citizens make several promises.
First, of course, they sever their loyalty to any other country. They swear to be loyal only to the United States. Judge stating the Oath of Allegiance, “I hereby declare on oath …” They promise to serve the nation, if needed. They promise to serve in the military, if needed. And of course, they promise to obey the laws of the United States, and to defend the Constitution. Judge: “… so help me God.”
Here’s something not in the Oath of Allegiance that I consider a challenge for all citizens: Placing principle above partisanship.
For instance, holding all politicians to the same standard – whether they’re Democrats or Republicans, or members of some other party.
Similarly, as a judge, I have to set aside my own views when a valid law says otherwise. Principle is hard to uphold. But a republic without principle is a government of men, not of laws. Just a tyranny of the majority.
