Our “CA story” this month is derived from a student editorial written for the school newspaper, The Roxbury Review, on November 18, 1932. It is interesting and perhaps sobering to read it in our inflamed and difficult political period.
The young editorial writer, not yet a voter, laments that he had recently heard President Herbert Hoover booed when his image was displayed on the screen in a movie theater. He writes, “Although he may have made a few mistakes while president, he did not make those mistakes to wreck this country. Far from it, he had the best intentions at heart.” He then reflects on President-elect Franklin Roosevelt: “He is bound to make some mistakes, but the American people should get down to business and help him solve our difficulties. That was the spirit of the country in 1777 and that must be the spirit of the country before we get out of this depression.”
The writer, who had no byline, goes on to complain about the negativity of most politicians and then asks a critical question: “I would like to know what these men, who are supposed to be the most representative of the United States, cherish most: their country, their party or themselves? If it is the last of these, why do they disgust the younger generation, who will soon be voters, by their actions? Why do they make them think the government is run by a lot of selfish men?”
We can see naiveté here but also the hopefulness and commitment to a better country that is essential to any democracy. We are also reminded that democracy is an experiment requiring the goodwill and engagement of informed citizens. What editorial might one of our students write today that could be read almost 100 years from now? Will we be proud of what we have bequeathed to future generations?
Want to contribute?
Do you have a CA story that illuminates the nature of our great school? If so, please email something in the range of 200-300 words to chip.boyd@cheshireacademy.org.
