What would you tell the people of Greenland (population 56,000) if you had the opportunity to discuss their country joining the United States? I’ve been thinking about this for a while. For example, what would I say if I could write a guest editorial? What would you say? It’s a civics and citizenship issue, so let’s discuss.
Would Greenland Become Our 51st State?
First, I would want to acquaint myself with the Inuit culture in their land, which has lots of ice but not a lot of people. When embarking on a joint venture, we must approach each other on common ground, coming in as willing parties for the common good.
I would tell Greenlanders that our national motto is “E Pluribus Unum, or Out of many, one.” Greenlanders would have room to retain their land, culture, and customs as a U.S. territory (as their customs are based on survival in the Arctic climate). Yet, I would want them to know that assimilation over time is essential if Greenland were to become a state.
From Colonialism to Independence
I read that Greenlanders want to move from colonialism to independence. We’ve been “there”! Principles like self-government, rugged individualism, and freedom are foundational to Americans. Our Forefathers no longer wanted to be ruled by Europe. They wanted the right to determine their future without an overseas monarchy dictating their daily lives. Some Greenlanders wish to determine their future as well.
Government Of, By, and for the People
Our Founding Fathers believed in the separation of powers so that one Branch of government didn’t gain sole power over the other. We also have checks and balances to ensure cooperation between the three branches of government. Laws are made in the Legislative Branch by the people we elect to represent us. We expect our Executive Branch constitutionally to carry out the laws that Congress passes. Our Constitution does not allow the Judicial Branch to make law. Rather, they discover and apply the law.
Our system of federalism would protect Greenland’s liberties should it become a state.
A Land of Opportunity
I would remind Greenland that they are a land of opportunity, as are we. They have rich minerals and a strategic location for military defense. We have the money and the equipment to help make the most of their location and natural resources. They have the tight-knit community spirit and history to make things happen. They also thrive in a land with an average high temperature of 47 degrees in July and an average low of 17 degrees in February. They make it work.
How would you approach a joint venture with Greenland leading to U.S. territory status or statehood? What would you say makes the United States an attractive alliance? How would you promote the U.S. over other suitors like Canada, Russia, China, or their present home rule under the Kingdom of Denmark?
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship. 🇺🇸
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