Charles Rangel, John Conyers, and the draft

The proposal from Representative Charles Rangel (D-NY) and supported by John Conyers’ (D-MI) to re-institute the draft is repugnant. Conscription is nothing less than involuntary servitude and by what right may a government enslave its people no matter the cause? Have we not learned from the injustices of the past? I am shocked that one of the leading proponents of slave reparations would entertain such a concept for the sake of playing politics. Also, what kind of person would advocate punishing a son or daughter for the decisions made by a parent? A senator or representative votes for war and their children are forcibly sent to the frontlines? Are we to treat adults as their parent’s chattel?

Only a volunteer army is consistent with the principles of individual liberty and justice. If Rangel and Conyers oppose a war with Iraq they should state their case, offer their arguments, and persuade their colleagues and constituents. This is appropriate for a free society. Advocating involuntary servitude is not.

[Letter to the Editor - The Detroit News - published 01/2003]