October 2001

"God Bless America" Sucks on Many Levels

Justy's Note: I recently sent this letter out to several news media outlets, and I hope my included opinions do not get me beat up. If nothing else, just remember that Woody Guthrie wrote "This Land is Your Land" as an angry response to "God Bless America," and the former is a much better song. I was as shocked, angered, and disturbed as much as anyone else at what happened on 11 September, but it doesn't mean I have to like everything that has happened in the weeks since. I'm probably gonna have to change my name to He Hate Me after this goes into print. Love, Justy.

Dear Sir/Madam,

In the wake of the violent tragedies which occurred on September 11th, Americans have come together with patriotic fervor not seen in many years. It is a bit inspiring to see so many people helping each other in whatever way they can, be it the donation of blood, money, or time. But I have a bone to pick with "God Bless America", both as a song and as a statement.

The song "God Bless America" is rather pedestrian, and aesthetically displeasing. Kate Smith may have been able to sing it like no one else, but therein lies the problem- Kate Smith is dead. From anybody else's voice, it becomes a rather weak anthem. I recognize the powerful unifying quality which many have come to admire in this song of late, but why not "America the Beautiful"? Both Ray Charles and Fozzie Bear have performed outstanding renditions, and are still alive. A matter of personal preference I suppose, but I do wish we could hear more of Ray Charles, and less of "God Bless America."

My concern with the phrase "God Bless America" is that it creates a very dangerous area, where this potential armed conflict could be perceived as a holy war against Islam. Those three words have been plastered all over the television and print media for the past three weeks, with the Stars and Stripes waving in the background. For many in the United States, it probably is a comforting statement. For many people around the world, it may just confirm their belief that our country is full of self-righteous, arrogant people. Just more fuel to add the fire of hatred that already burns so brightly against the United States.

This is a time for this country to stand together in the face of enormous tragedy. I just hope we can do it without "God Bless America."

Sincerely,

Justy