Born Again American: Faith and Patriotism for the Left
by About the Born Again American video and political movement.
You may have recently received an email from a friend showing you a video for the song, “Born Again American”. This is a new movement, born just as Barack Obama was elected.
The Song
Upon hearing “Born Again American” you might flinch. It is a country song, steeped in references to the Bible, blue collar work and patriotism. After eight years of a southern-focused, flag flying, evangelical right, many of us have knee jerk reactions to these themes. Your first instinct might be to think this is a desperate attempt by Republicans to gain back some ground lost in the recent election. After reading about Born Again American, you will learn it is a non-partisan initiative focused on influencing public policy for the betterment of all Americans.
The Organization
Born Again American is an organization dedicated to increasing voter participation and activism, especially in younger Americans. Norman Lear, who you may know from his successful television series “All in the Family” and “Jeffersons”, founded the organization. The video came after a late night conversation with actor and songwriter Keith Carradine. Out of this conversation, an idea was born. Create a song and video about modern social and political issues. Use non-professionals who really believe in the words and are living the struggles expressed.
The Man
Norman Lear has a history of activism. He was a founding funder for the New America Foundation and began People for the American Way, an organization that has fought hard against the ultra-conservative Right.
Mr. Lear is known as a hard-core liberal. He has been careful to craft the Born Again American movement to center around patriotism and religious values, for which the Right has long claimed ownership. The movement is a call to action for ordinary Americans to get involved in the policy decisions our government is making.
While you may not be ready to jump on the wagon of this movement, it is a good idea to keep an eye on these Born Again Americans and see if they live up to the ideals espoused. It is a hopeful step towards a more unified country.
Watch Born Again American on YouTube.
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