While a mandatory military draft doesn't conjure the concept of peace for some, New York Democratic Rep. Charles Rangel and hip-hop activist Russell Simmons disagree. In fact, the two write on the Huffington Post that a draft, through the Universal National Service Act and the All American Selective Service Act, would encourage the U.S. government to exhaust all options before engaging in war and give all Americans a vested interest in the decision to go to war.
… Both on the streets and in distant conflict zones, peace must always remain our first priority. Whether as a member of our Armed Forces in a distant land or as an educated citizen here at home, each of us has a vital role to play as we ensure our collective security …
The long term effects of conflict continue to take their toll on our bravest as the suicide rate among the nation's active-duty military personnel continues to spike. The number of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines taking their own lives has climbed to approximately one in every 18 hours and has eclipsed the rate of those dying in combat …
Being a citizen of this great nation comes with great responsibility. The Universal National Service Act and All American Selective Service Act ensure that the cost of freedom and benefits of being an American are shared by all Americans. If we are all truly vested in the decision to use force — the decision to use of force will truly be the last resort.
Read Charles Rangel and Russell Simmons' entire piece at the Huffington Post.
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