Description
Version 2.0.0
Most Americans do not realize that in the majority of states, males automatically are registered for Selective Service when applying for their driver’s license. They also must register to receive most federal and state loans, training, employment, and more. This lack of understanding, coupled with the erroneous belief that ‘we don’t have a draft’ tends to mask the importance of conversations around military service in general and conscientious objection in particular. The reality is we have phase I of a draft, which is registration, but not phase II, which is conscription, and that could change quickly and easily. If it does, according to current law, a conscientious objector (CO) could have less than 10 days after getting an induction notice to request a CO re-classification.
Discerning and articulating deep-seated beliefs about conscientious objection is challenging for anyone. A young person facing such a choice with ten days to respond is daunting. Because Selective Service is so hidden, minimal thought has been given either to the consequences of registration or to the formulation of a peace testimony. Are we raising a generation of youth ill-prepared to articulate and document a claim against the mass killing of war? With information and activities, this curriculum provides a pathway that helps them do this.
The revisions in this second edition stem from conducting workshops over the last nine years. Particularly, this version adds a major section on “defending” a CO claim including a draft board simulation, twelve basic questions, strategies for answering them, and some sample responses. It introduces a Workshop Journal for personal on-the-spot reflections, consolidates previous agendas onto one page with a set sequence of topics, and uses the PowerPoint Notes Pages for facilitator tips and background information. Everything is integrated into a 60-slide deck.
As in the first edition, this one explains Selective Service registration and methods, defines conscientious objection as prescribed by law and judicial rulings, provides a range of activities to promote and guide individual soul-searching and group discussion, and illustrates concrete ways to document a CO claim, including writing a CO Letter. The curriculum is comprehensive and extensive, and a potent tool not just for teens but for teachers and facilitators who want to learn and then teach it. It blends instruction with experiential learning to help a CO discern and articulate deeply held beliefs and convictions. While individuals might use the curriculum, it is most effective in groups, ideally involving all ages and genders, not just 18-year-old males. Lastly, beyond the potential safeguards against a re-activated draft, this curriculum can have a lasting impact on the lives of young people. Over the last 25 years, many CO letter writers recognized the influence this testimonial has had on their lives and their commitment to peace and non-violence. This is peace training that changes lives.
Author: Curt Torell, PhD
Publisher: Quaker House
All Proceeds Benefit Quaker House
