Indiana Capitol Forum

Class Statements 2009

 

School: Benton Central High School

Class: 11th Grade U.S. History

Teacher: Ed Robson

What specific international issues did your class discuss?
U.S.-Middle East relations, terorism, foreign relations, renewable energy, trade, and nuclear weapons

Are there issues that you agreed are important? If so, what are they?
Terrorism, renewable energy, and trade

Did you agree that some issues are less important? If so, which ones?
No

Class Statement: The United States needs to continue its pursuit to quell the spread of terrorism. A world where various countries would combine their efforts cooperatively to eliminate terrorist organizations would be ideal; however, pulling troops and being uninvolved will not create cooperative interactions. Terrorists do not cooperate. Terrorists or people who abhor America will always exist, but bringing troops back home will give terrorists permission to reunite and attack again. Americans need to remember September 11, 2001, and learn from the tragic losses our country suffered that day. Trade succeeds as the foundation of the United States' economy. Countries currently pose threats to our trading system with unfair foreign policies and trade barriers. We believe that the United States should become more aggressive in terms of tariff taxes and the unjust ways that other countries construct trade barriers that do not allow American products to be placed in their market system. Due to these foreign countries enforcing unjust trade barriers, the United States' economy is falling and more American workers are unable to put food on the table. In order for our economic status to change, the protection of American workers is needed. We would be more than supportive if the United States was to eliminate the North American Free Trade Association and become more involved in the World Trade Organization. Also, we would favor the creation of a new trading bloc, in order to eradicate all unfair foreign policies and trade barriers. Our class believes that this could potentially be the only solution to bring our economy out of its rapid decline. By honoring our current treaties the United States will establish an efficient example for other countries. Cooperation between the United States and other countries currently participating in the Nuclear Non- Proliferation Treaty will help resolve international concerns with Russia exceeding as a nuclear super power. With numerous intimidations such as a large group of rivalries, terrorists will be less likely to strike, therefore creating a more stable world. Citizens will be accompanied by a strong sense of security that will arise from safety in numbers. We also, as a nation, realize that the United States should protect our economy from the burden in which immigration has created. However the united states currently possesse4s many vast and prolific assets due to the settlement and contributions of many immigrants years ago. Despite this situation instead of restricting all new immigrants from entering our homeland we should provide assistance and foreign aid to augment other nations' economies and living conditions. This act would diminish the causes with drive desperate immigrants to our shores in search of a sanctuary.

The environment affects every single person in the world in some way that is why it is such an important topic, and why politicians around the world now discuss ways to conserve it. The pollutants released in America, don't just stay with us, they affect Mexico and Canada as well. Although many people speak of protecting the environment, the true underlying issue is protecting us. While conserving forests and wildlife is an important, the real reason we need to is for us, not for Mother Earth. When a species goes extinct, we lose things we may learn from it, links questions that we want answers for, possible medical cures. When Green House gases are emitted into the air we suffer much more than the Earth, so protecting it is not so much a priority for the Earth's safety, but for our own well being. The Earth has been around for billions of years, much longer than us, if we continue the trend we are on, it is us who will not survive, the environment will bounce back.

It is unrealistic to say that America should go all green right now. Our economy is not in any position to do so, nor is many countries' around the world. It will take more than just America to stop the pattern we are in, but America should lead the way, and set the standards. We are one of the most wasteful countries; we use more resources than countries larger than us. We should use more money to switch over to clean energy such as windmills, and require our car companies to design models that are more eco-friendly. The government should fund research to develop Geothermal and hydrogen energy, as there is literally no waste from them. If America takes the proper steps, more than likely, the rest of the world will follow in suit not wanting to be left behind. As it stands right now, America is not one of the leaders in the "quest for green," and that needs to be changed.

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School: Signature School (Evansville)

Class: IB European History HL/SL (First Period)

Teacher: Attilia Gogel

Class Statement: Nuclear weapons, trade, terrorism, environment, and immigration are all important issues in the United States. Each topic impacts our daily lives.

These issues are important because the environment must be sustained for present and future generations, and our foreign policy in this respect needs improvement since the current policy is criticized by many global citizens causing a lack of unity of purpose in the policies for the protection of our natural habitat. Alternative fuel sources must be found because the world as a whole is overly dependent on oil; the global economy is currently at stake, so trade must be improved; nuclear weapons hold a threat on the lives of individuals; immigration is important for the global and national unity, adding and subtracting to the population crisis.

There is much debate over what issues are more or less important than others. Some believe that international trade is stable, while others believe that it is at a crossroads and may possibly be at risk. Immigration is a much debated issue and is over exposed, causing some students to find it unimportant. Some believe that Nuclear Weapons pale in comparison to the greatness of terrorism or the environment. Over all each issue holds some significance in the lives of many people. Some do not see the current problems and successes of each aspect, but nothing is more important than anything else, even if some issues get more media attention and need more aid at the present time.

There must be a balance in everything and every aspect in the lives of Americans for each person and group to thrive. The population and resources must be shared and sustained. A global connection must be formed, allowing cultural differences to be recognized and understood. Terrorism and nuclear weapons go hand-in-hand with the safety of the citizens. We must learn that they will in no way disappear, but instead we must understand what causes the disagreements of peoples and the needs to have nuclear weapons in order to prevent any future problems. We must always defend our homeland, protecting the citizens from terrorism. We must look at the underlying problems of the nation and work from the bottom up. We must have a strong foundation in order to have a strong and successful nation. Trade needs to be promoted and immigration should be restricted but not completely removed. The United States must take the lead in this by promoting a green economy and leading all other nations in technology. The United States needs to understand the current situation and repair any damages to create a more globally open community without wars and resource shortages.

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School: Signature School (Evansville)

Class: AP Comparative Politics (Seventh Period)

Teacher: Attilia Gogel

What specific international issues did your class discuss?

1. Environment

2. Terrorism

3. Immigration

4. Nuclear Weapons

5. Global Economy

Are there issues that you agreed are important? If so, what are they? Our class believed that the most important issues present in the world today were the global economy because of its effect on multiple developing nations and the development of nuclear weapons because it increases instability and tensions.

Did you agree that some issues are less important? If so, which ones? Our class believed that Immigration was the least important issue in the world today. Because immigration is subject to the political climate of a particular region and time period, it is more a local issue rather than an international one.

Class Statement:

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School: Frankton High School

Teacher: Kevin M. Cline

Class Statement: We, as a team, believe that the biggest priority for the United States should be to pursue avenues of improving America's image to the rest of the world. To accomplish this goal, we feel that we, as a country, should: work towards improving methods of energy consumption through the development of technology such as wind turbines and alternative energy sources; "fight" terrorism by working to remove the absence of hope that pervades countries in which terrorist cells find shelter in the hope that, if terrorism no longer has a home to hide within, the idea can die; and, with the goal of not only funding these programs but also fixing issues domestically, the United States should take a hard-line stance on economic policy.

Currently the United States, and the world alike, is too dependent on oil as an energy source. This not only puts us at the risk of relying on a rapidly declining resource, but also puts undue power and influence in the hands of the few who possess the commodity. The United States needs to stop talking about energy policy and actually realize that the goal must be to achieve a method of sustaining our current energy needs while utilizing a resource which is both renewable and more efficient, like wind turbines. This policy would also include the necessitation of alternative energy sources for vehicles. Finally, the United States must share that technology with the world in the hopes of making other countries more self-sufficient, which would not only show us to be mindful of the needs of the world, but also remove the need for these countries to lean on others.

The issue of terrorism is obviously pervasive in every American's mind, and the United States has spent a great deal of time and money attempting to eradicate this threat. But we, as a team, believe that it is not a tangible goal of the United States to be able to remove the threat of terrorism through force. Force only feeds the fire and the idea of terrorism; using force to fight this idea has only shown to be a losing battle. Instead, we believe that the seeds of terrorism grow in the soil made fertile by an absence of hope. Developing countries like Afghanistan are home to violent terrorist cells, and these cells often find support in the people of these countries. Terrorists targeting the United States find ammunition in the notion that the US is a land of plenty while they live in land of so little. We, as a country, must work to improve the lives of those living in these countries so as to make arid the soil in which this issue grows. We must share of our wealth and technology. Most importantly, we must do so without attaching strings to our help. It is crucial to improving America's image to show developing nations that we are there to help, and do not necessarily expect to be rewarded with anything in return.

Finally, we understand the both of our above goals will require funding, and that this is not possible without the country first righting the ship economically. We feel that the government must take a hard-line stance in response to the current burgeoning crisis. The stance must be that we, as a country, are either going to pump as much money as needed into the economy to truly motivate it; or we must let some companies, including members of the auto industry, succumb to the death created by their own financial malfeasance. We believe that this would also show other countries that we are willing to make tough decisions. We feel that, as a team, these are the main issues that we must pursue in order to improve America's image to the rest of the world.

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School: Arsenal Technical High School (Indianapolis)

Class:

Teacher: Garing

Class Statement: Our class has reflected upon our number one value, Democracy, attempting to determine what it meant to the people of the United States in the past and to the people of the United States today. We concluded that it means we are all one, united not by common background but by what it means to be American, the principles and virtues we hold close to our heart of equality and opportunity. It was the American ideals of democracy and change that paved the road for Americans to do what they have to, to secure this nations future, prosperity, and eminence. Americans have always chosen to change whenever faced with a challenge that threats our stability. We did so after World War II and we did so at the steps of the Lincoln memorial. It is in those times of change when the unheard voices of the minority become the profound orators of the majority.

We do not propose an easy universal solution to the problem of terrorism, environment, trade, immigration, and to nuclear weapons; the issues we believe are abrupt to the survival of this nation. But, an extensive, cohesive solution that will potentially take the long run if necessary, or any other road to insure the American will and dream. We must take a stance to combat the efforts of extreme groups; groups that wish to instill fear and a false sense of respect to citizens around the world. Terrorist organizations should not be allowed to surface in the communities of the world. To stop terrorism at it's roots we seek cooperation amongst nations.

To make sure the future generations of Americans have a clean environment for years to come we must take action in preserving and ceasing the pollution and consumption of natural resources. We are a nation of an ever-increasing human capital, we have the ability to harvest the energy provided by the wind, water, and sun. Americans just need the investment and the effects of that investment will insure the security of out future, for the nation. For our economy we just accomplish the task of investing in energy creating more job and allowing America to play a key role in the technology race and preserving our environment. By making education the number one value children seek for their future, giving those who pursue high education the ability to pay for it, establish trade skill programs for those who believe their talents are able. Reforming welfare, retirement and unemployment so that it will help those who truly need assistance, receive it. Finally, by putting an ending to unnecessary spending and stopping programs that do not present positive results and reinvest in the programs that do.

The accepted theory of deterrence has allowed for countries to attempt justifying their wishes for weapons of mass destruction. The United States cannot allow such actions to be accepted internationally. Our class proposes the establishment of other associations like the Nunn-Lugar to branch off the United Nations Security Council; to dismantle and observe nuclear activities around the globe. In the pressuring issue of immigration the American government is more compassionate toward admitting immigrants who already have family in the United States, skilled workers, and in helping refugees seeking asylum. We propose the adoption of such policies such as allowing skilled workers who can financially support themselves to permanently live in the country, to reduce the risk of welfare dependants. Today, we are in the midst of a struggle, an internal struggle of identity. An identity that has lost the values our fore fathers set on the foundation of this country. Along with the alteration of power, many predicaments have surfaced. Endeavors in the field of trade, environment, nuclear weapons, immigration, and terrorism serve as only a few obstacles in America's journey to restore our prominence.

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School: Arsenal Technical High School (Indianapolis)

Class:

Teacher: Troy Hammon

Class Statement: Over the past months, our honors class of has strived to understand America and its role in the international community. We have labored over research, debated and defended, answered limitless questions while seeking innumerable answers, pursued inspiration as well as inspired others. We have done all of this in our quest for knowledge; for a better understanding of the delicate infrastructure of the society we are such a part of. We strived for a complete comprehension of the pressing concerns America is faced with today by fully stimulating the topics of environment, immigration, nuclear proliferation, terrorism, and trade.

The summation of these topics is multifaceted and interrelated. The dimensions of globalization play key parts in our day to day lives. Our class consensus was that trade and the global economy, environmental research and technology, and the security of our borders in correlation to immigration are the hurdles we must leap in order to become a more effective and stable governing state. Our world is facing a huge economic relapse, and we believe that the topics of trade, environment, and immigration are the most applicable solutions to create economic stability. Whilst we believe progress in these specific areas are the most pertinent to the success of our nation, terrorism and nuclear weapons are still closely related. The world today is faced with abundant economic instability, a direct factor of environmental decline, increased amounts of terrorist organizations, production of nuclear weapons and influxes in immigration.

These issues are keeping our world at a standstill, preventing progress. For our nation to grow and prosper, we must tackle each topic from every angle so that we can secure better lives for ourselves and for future generations.

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School: Cathedral High School (Indianapolis)

Class: IB History of the Americas-Seniors

Teacher: Sister Mary Ann Stewart

What specific international issues did your class discuss?
Caps on carbon polluting emissions, the use of Methyl Bromide and other toxic chemicals in agriculture, the outsourcing of American jobs, the war in Iraq, illegal immigration, and the danger of nuclear weapons falling into the hands of terrorists

Are there issues that you agreed are important? If so, what are they?
The students seemed to be particularly concerned about the loss of American jobs to other countries, environmental issues, the Iraq War, and U.S. policies toward illegal immigrants.

Did you agree that some issues are less important? If so, which ones?
We discussed the growing problems in the African countries of Sudan, Somalia, and the Congo, but felt that the U.S. could do little about these issues until our economy is stabilized.

Class Statement: We believe that U.S. foreign policy is the key to a stronger America, both domestically and as a part of a global community. The issues of trade, the environment, terrorism, nuclear proliferation and immigration are of immediate importance in shaping our foreign policy.

In regard to the environment, the U.S. should introduce market-based caps on carbon polluting emissions. Also, mass transit systems need to be subsidized in order to encourage the use and expansion of mass transportation. The U.S. should ban the use of Methyl Bromide and other highly toxic chemicals in agriculture. The U.S needs to continue to search for alternative energy sources in order to decrease our dependence on foreign oil. Through these actions the U.S. can encourage other nations to implement similar programs, specific to their own countries, while simultaneously creating jobs for Americans at home within the environmental sector.

The U.S. should be a strong force in relieving the problems in the world economy, while also remaining open to the ideas of the other world powers. Because outsourcing eliminates American jobs, tax incentives should be offered to U.S. companies to keep manufacturing jobs on American soil.

In regard to the war in the Middle East, America has been spending billions per week. Coupled with the current state of the U.S. economy, America cannot afford to spend this much. We advocate keeping a small force of American troops and diplomats in Iraq, while withdrawing most of the U.S. troops.

Alternative means for keeping the peace in Iraq can be utilized. We must continue efforts in the war in Afghanistan in order to protect the people of this nation from the tyranny of terrorist militants. The U.S. needs to strengthen the international coalition against terrorism, and also strengthen its efforts to prevent acts of terrorism within the United States. Known and convicted terrorists should not be brought into the United States from Guantanamo Bay Naval Base.

To control illegal immigration, the United State should speed up the process for legal immigrants to enter the United States from Latin America, strengthen border controls, and impose tougher penalties on employers who hire illegal immigrants. The U.S. should implement programs that promote the citizenship of current immigrants, and should expand ESL programs.

We must accept that rogue nuclear weapons are the single greatest threat facing the world, today. We believe that a stronger international coalition is needed to properly secure loose nuclear weapons and nuclear weapons materials. We must accept that even in times of economic crisis the protection of America and the world from a potential catastrophic nuclear Armageddon should be one of the foremost objectives in American foreign policy.

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School: Covenant Christian High School (Indianapolis)

Class: U.S. History

Teacher: Mrs. Yvonne Thompson

What specific international issues did your class discuss?
Terror, Nuclear Proliferation, Immigration, Trade, Environment

Are there issues that you agreed are important? If so, what are they?

Did you agree that some issues are less important? If so, which ones?
Immigration

Class Statement: Balancing Freedom with Security

Priorities of U.S. foreign policy must focus on our multi-billion dollar trade deficit with other nations, and protect our nation and others from radical terrorist organizations. The U.S. government needs to invest more resources into college education for its citizens, to create a highly skilled workforce that can compete in the global labor market. Supporting industries that create green technology and market exports will fill global demands for alternative energy resources, and benefit American workers. Alternative energy will make the world less reliant on foreign oil, which will help the environment and pacify foreign conflicts created by U.S. business interests in the Middle East. If regional conflicts in the Middle East arise from Hezbollah or Hamas, we should help promote cooperation and stability multilaterally. While we respect the principles of President Bush's New National Security Strategy, we also believe the Obama administration needs to re-establish the trust of the international community following our invasion of Iraq, and only intervene militarily in situations where we are asked to do so. Osama bin Laden's activities must be stopped in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The Taliban's possible access to Pakistan's nuclear weapons is frightening. We must protect our security, but also work multilaterally when freedom and justice are threatened in other parts of the world.

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School: Lafayette Jefferson High School

Class: Social Studies

Teacher: Christy Diehl

Class Statement

1) Our group discussed the issues of the environment, immigration, nuclear weapons, terrorism, and trade.

2) After a discussion of our various topics, we found that the issues of environmental issues, immigration, and trade are most important. We believe that the economy plays a big role in the success or downfall of our society. For example, we cannot supply energy saving technology unless our economy has the funds to support them. In order to have these funds, we must have solid trade agreements with other nations and control how many immigrants can enter the country. We feel that environmental issues, immigration problems, and trade are the most important topics up for discussion.

3) We feel that each topic has some level of importance, and one is not necessarily above the other. Yet, there are some topics that have higher priority than others. We hold the principles of freedom, equality, and justice to be very important with our beliefs. The topics of the environment and trade are highly dependent on the ideas of cooperation and the stability with other nations. The topic of terrorism is affected by the tolerance of terrorist practices by other nations, as are the acts of atrocity that are committed in foreign lands. We believe the least important issue of the topics is the threat of nuclear weapons.

Immigration - In our present day, we must realize that immigration is a major issue in the United States. The rate at which immigrants are entering our nation is just as difficult to maintain as the actual number of those wishing to come to America in search of a better life. I believe that we need to accept the talents of those from outside nations. It is imperative that we rise out of our economic downfall, and in order to solve the conflict we must make employment opportunities available for our lower and middle-income families. So we must limit the amount of immigrants taking U.S. citizen's jobs. If they are more qualified for an upper-level position, then they can either start new opportunities by starting their own businesses or only try to attain jobs in which require higher qualifications. This leaves existing jobs that require lower qualifications for those who are not as qualified as others.

Nuclear Proliferation - Nuclear weapons should be banned and destroyed through out the entire world. It is similar to a quote by Albert Einstein, "As long as armies exist, any serious conflict will lead to war." If nuclear weapons are just sitting around countries, who is to say that North Korea, for example, will not decided to bomb the United States? The tragic affects of 13,000 tons of TNT were witnessed the day Hiroshima was bombed. Buildings and people were turned to dust or burned beyond recognition instantly. It is not safe for the potential of a nuclear war out-break to rampage and kill thousands of future and current generations. Nuclear weapons are harmful to not only the U.S. but all other countries as well. Those weapons should be removed immediately.

Environment - We believe that no specific issue should be considered more important than another, but all should have a place of balance in the equation for solution. The United States has been a world leader in many aspects of economic progress, and recognizing global issues, yet we as a country must also realize that there needs to be a keen balance between our economic and environmental issues in order to move forward in the 21st century. Our country should take the lead in "green" practices and encourage other growing countries to follow suit in the efforts to protect our earth. Until recently our country had somewhat ignored the effects of our rapid and successful industrialization and modernization of progress on our planet. Now that we know more about how much our actions effect our environment, we should promote positive methods of expanding countries' efforts to progress into the 21st century. We need to focus on saving the environment and realizing that the survival of humanity depends on it.

Terrorism - We believe that terrorism is not something to be taken lightly. The United States has a responsibility to be a world leader in fighting it. We do not believe that military action is the solution, however. We believe that terrorism must be fought by attacking its core causes. The United States must end its military operation in Iraq and turn control over to the Iraqis. This way, the United States can spend more resources focusing on funding priorities to improve the quality of life of disadvantaged population around the world. The United States can also work to find long-lasting resolutions to conflicts that are long term. By doing so, the United States will be able to fight terrorism at the source. By doing so, the United States will be able to better focus on other needs that may be deemed more immediate to the citizens of not only America, but the entire world.

Trade - At this point in our country, the needs of our people are the most important things to consider. We need to protect American workers from the dangers of the struggling economy, even if it means compromising our staunch policy of "free trade". We opt in favor of fair trade that will benefit our hard-working laborers over the white-collar millionaires who have been reaping the benefits of our economy. In order to accomplish this, we should withdraw from NAFTA and focus our energies on improving the conditions of WTO. We need to rise up against the countries that have unjust trade barriers against American products. To further protect our workers, we should give tax benefits to corporations who hire American workers as opposed to hiring over seas. By doing this, we will be protecting the interests of our own country and the workers who keep us functional.

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School: Lafayette Jefferson High School

Class: U.S. History, World History, Geography

Teacher: Scott Graves

What specific international issues did your class discuss? Our team discussed immigration in depth and all the different things America should do with that. We also discussed the attacks on September 11, and all the alternative energy we should begin to use as a country. We also discussed our views on nuclear weapons and how America should treat them internationally. Our last topic discussed was trade and how poor working conditions in other countries are making America's living standards decrease.

Are there issues that you agreed are important? If so, what are they? Our team agreed that immigration, terrorism, and environment were of most importance.

Did you agree that some issues are less important? If so, which ones? The issues we feel are of least importance are trade and nuclear proliferation.

Class Statement: As citizens of this great country, we have witnessed moments that will forever be in the pages of history. Moments that have left us in despair and moments that you couldn't believe were real. Many things affect this country everyday and in some ways they all affect one another. As a team we have talked about five of these pressing issues and have decided that immigration is our most pressing topic. Following immigration in order of most important are terrorism, environment, nuclear proliferation, and finally, trade. The top three are all seen as our first priorities with the last two as our least.

The first and most important to our team is immigration. Of course, immigration is an issue that has always, and will continue to affect America. We feel that America does not have a suitable plan in place but should be persistent about changing that. We need immigration reform, not one that will please everyone but on that can please the people and still be ethical. We believe that America should help other countries and expand its power to other countries. Having strong policies and programs in place will help keep the immigration numbers under control and monitored. We should help others while being able to keep a strong front on our own borders.

The next topic of discussion is terrorism. Since the attacks on September 11, 2001, the country has been nervous and in fear. We should never allow another attack to place, and to do that we need a stronger intelligence capacity. We should be monitoring anyone that could be a potential threat to this country. We need to also be able to have a strong military defense in place ready to fight and protect America. We cannot wait for another attack but in turn, be able to prevent it. Another concept we need to follow are the Geneva Conventions. As an international treaty, it needs to be followed and not broken.

The last of our most important issues is the environment. As a powerful country, we should be the first to take the lead on developing new alternative energy. We need to take the "go green" trend and make reusable, new power and an opportunity for more employment. America should have good environmental examples in place that other countries could follow. The environment affects us all and there is nothing to do but to work together and take care of the world we live in.

Our fourth issue of discussion is nuclear proliferation. We feel that as a country, America needs to limit the amount of nuclear weapons distributed. Nuclear weapons shouldn't be distributed, made, or tested so easily. We should be on high alert at all times of any countries suspicious of withholding nuclear weapons; they could be potential threats to America and our citizens.

Our final issue, and the one we feel is of least importance is trade. We, as a team, believe that trade should follow policies that benefit the entire country. America should value human rights and look down on poor working conditions. We need to take the initiative and cease trading with countries that take away important values from its workers so as to gain a higher standard of living. We believe that in order to become a stronger economic force we need to treat workers equally and avoid economic globalization.

In conclusion, our team feels we can be of great importance when it comes to taking leadership. America could help other countries while having a firm grip on our borders and allowing more leniency too those that deserve it. We need t expand our intelligence capacity and be able to prevent any more attacks, along with always having a strong military force to protect us. We can be effective leaders when it comes to our mother earth, we can use our knowledge and technology to start making a difference. America needs to have some control over the distribution of nuclear weapons and be monitoring any countries possibly obtaining them. Lastly, we need strong, efficient policies when it comes to trade and a country that doesn't tolerate poor working conditions. We could be the first to set great examples and be able to attain higher standards towards the life of the American people.

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School: Lafayette Jefferson High School

Class: World History / Government

Teacher: Thomas Skinner

What specific international issues did your class discuss? Our class discussed several issues including the environment, terrorism, immigration, trade, and nuclear proliferation.

Are there issues that you agreed are important? If so, what are they? The class agreed, after much discussion, that all of the issues maintain a very high level of importance in our society today. All of these issues play an important role in the day to day lives of U.S. citizens and non-citizens alike. Currently the economy has been on the mind more than any other issue; however we must be careful not to allow it to serve as a distraction from the many other issues that still necessitate attention.

Did you agree that some issues are less important? If so, which ones? All of the issues that we discussed are on the forefront of our minds. Difficult economic times require us to prioritize which needs are to be dealt with the most attention. It is a challenging process trying to decide which policy is less urgent, but after a process of elimination and discussion, the environment, although extremely vital and basic, is one that isn't as critical and pressing as the others. If taken seriously, our community and planet should continue to thrive and not suffer. In order to nurture a healthy environment, we first need to take care of the issues affecting us at home.

Class Statement: The United States faces many obstacles, one of the most important issues being the economy. The U.S. is going through the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. The top priority on all American minds is the economy and how the government will fix the problems that have been created. If focus is not put on domestic problems, the economic crisis will worsen. The actions the U.S. government will be able to take will be directly affected by the state of the economy, which is why the government needs to put domestic issues first. Only after the U.S. stabilizes, can it look to stabilize other countries.

To achieve global harmony with our environment, we must think first not of ourselves, but generations to come. Rather than wasting money on banks that will use the money for nothing constructive, we should use that money to make our big corporations green. We also need to aid countries that will use our money productively in the fight against AIDS and hunger. While trying to better the world, the United States cannot forget its most important duty, protecting its citizens.

Terrorism isn't just an issue that affects the Middle East and the United States. It is a worldwide epidemic that is a stressor to countries all over. Fighting an action, as opposed to a person or state, is much too difficult for just one country to solve. The United States should support the United Nations in dealing with problems concerning the War on Terror. By respecting the decisions of a majority of the world, the United States would not lose its face of compromise. The face of America is a delicate item under securitization from terrorists, and needs to be kept pristine. Sharing decision-making and leadership with community of nations affected by terrorism strengthens the fight to end terror and enhances the image of United States appearance. This deliberation can help solve many other world issues, such as nuclear proliferation.

The possession of nuclear warheads is essential to the national security of the United States. An attempt to eradicate all of the estimated 27,600 nuclear warheads scattered throughout the world would be overly expensive, intrusive, and inevitably unsuccessful. As well, no choice we make on our nuclear weapons policy will guarantee similar choices made by other countries. Reducing down to sole reliance on arms control would leave us more vulnerable than ever to terrorists groups and rogue countries. Reducing our own supply of nuclear weapons would result in us losing our military foothold with Russia and sink us down to equal status with China, France, and the UK. One of our largest objectives as a nation, for our own security, is to remain one of the world's great military powerhouses. As a leader in the world, the United States needs to set an example for other countries around the world.

The United States should open itself to the rest of the world, which means it should open its borders. This country was founded by immigrants, and thrives from immigrant labor. Immigrants are the backbone of the economy; they do jobs American citizens would not do. Americans embrace cultural diversity, and put a stamp on it. America is tolerant to all different people who come from all walks of life. This country is a land of opportunity and freedom, to sustain this, it must diminish bureaucratic offices, which separate families, and loved ones. The government should protect people, who come to this country as refugees, for example immigrants from the Iraq War should have full protection under asylum laws. To adjust to American life, polices should be made to provide immigrants with English classes, and job training. Because immigrants also pay taxes, they should be allowed for basic health care and education, as well as other services. All of these polices can help immigrants prosper and live in this magnificent country, Americans have taken for granted.

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School: McCutcheon High School

Class: International Relations

Teacher: Scott Royer

What specific international issues did your class discuss? All aspects including the economy, conflict and international problem solving.

Are there issues that you agreed are important? If so, what are they? They are all important. However, we focused on the effects of the economy on both domestic and foreign policy.

Did you agree that some issues are less important? If so, which ones?
We could not come up with one that is less important, as they are all interconnected.

Class Statement: For too long the United States has taken short term gain in favor of long term prosperity. By dealing harshly with other countries, we have created deep set resentment and animosity towards our country. We believe that by treating other nations with respect and dignity we will establish lasting diplomatic relationships and decrease the threat of terrorism. While this might result in short term loss, the overall benefit will be immeasurable.

For too long we have neglected our environment. The United States needs to work on a global level to solve environmental issues. First we must invest in green technology and research to end our dependence on foreign oil and improve our economy. We must combine technological brain power with other countries in the world and share our discoveries in order to find solutions faster. We need to support international efforts and work harder to follow international guidelines for pollution emissions. The last step the U.S. can take is giving aid to developing nations to help their economies in order to begin solving the problem of the North-South divide.

For too long we have tried to prevent immigrants from entering our country. No greater example of irony exists; our history has proven that our country thrives on and needs immigration. It is time we embrace our past and take action to encourage legal immigration, rather than discourage. Immigration can only add to our culture and economy.

For too long we have assumed free trade implies support of democracy. This idea of democracy is skewed and accepted to our favor. We have continually displayed hypocrisy in our regulations. Trade should be used as a display of right rather than as a weapon. We should display our ideas and support our causes rightfully. We should use trade to help the people of countries rather than the government of countries.

For too long has the United States sat on an arsenal of 26,300 unnecessary warheads. We should reduce that number in the hope that other countries will also reduce their stockpiles. The Cold War is over and American foreign policy should be altered toward the newest threat, the weakened economy. The current amount of money going toward new military technology should be redirected toward dismantlement than the protection of nuclear technology and prevention of nuclear proliferation.

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School: Silver Creek High School (Sellersburg)

Class: International Relations

Teacher: Sharon Neal

What specific international issues did your class discuss?

Are there issues that you agreed are important? If so, what are they?

Did you agree that some issues are less important? If so, which ones?
Illegal immigration is recognized as a concern but not one the class feels as pressing at this time.

Class Statement: As part of an attempt to better understand the issues facing America in an increasingly globalized society, the Silver Creek High School International Relations class has discussed and debated the most pressing matters facing our country today. After evaluating the numerous dilemmas in which we as an upcoming generation must overcome, we have come to the conclusion that subjects concerning trade and the economy, terrorism, and nuclear proliferation must be our primary focus. However, while not as pressing as the aforementioned topics, environmental and immigration concerns should be dealt with accordingly, as both are controversial problems towards which Americans need improve our current policies.

America currently is facing the most debilitating economic crisis since the Great Depression. Therefore, we strongly believe that the revival of the American economy is a crucial concern that must be dealt with as swiftly as possible. In our efforts to do so, we must concentrate not only on the domestic aspects of the recession, but also on the global ramifications exerted by and upon us. While a certain degree of self-reliance is important, we cannot ignore the globalized state of the world today.

In order to promote cooperation, America must unite with the international community in combating both terrorism and nuclear proliferation abroad. A shared sense of security and justice amongst the people of the planet is vital in establishing a more cooperative and effective world order. We must address all threats to our safety and freedom, which include those wishing to press intolerant and radical beliefs on others through physical force and destruction. It is pressing that America prevents the spread of nuclear weapons throughout the globe and works with other countries possessing nuclear capabilities towards a sense of equality and communal well-being.

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School: Owen Valley High School (Spencer)

Class: ACP U.S. History

Teacher: Teresa Boruff-Young

Class Statement: The world today is struggling to keep up with the relentless pace of change and the pursuit of freedom, equality, tolerance, stability, and self-reliance, which we believe can only be achieved through cooperation. We defined cooperation as setting aside personal differences and working with one another to achieve a common goal. With the US economy being in such a state and international relations being so unstable, our nation's security is in jeopardy. Based on this belief, cooperation is the only way we can protect ourselves and maintain stability as a whole.

As a result of a lack of cooperation and tolerance, terrorism has become a prevalent issue in today's society. Terrorism itself is a tactic political radicals use to get their opinions recognized by the public. Many of the acts associated with terrorism in the US have been religiously motivated. On September 11, 2001, the US was devastated by one of the worst terrorist attacks in its history. The World Trade Centers in New York and the Pentagon in Washington D.C. were struck by hijacked planes and many lives were lost. Osama bin Laden, the man responsible for the attack, believed he was doing God's work. Because of his religious prejudices, we are still dealing with the consequences of his actions. Freedom and stability are always in jeopardy when people cannot accept one another for their differences. Terrorism is an issue that can be resolved as long as nations have the vision to cooperate with and tolerate one another for global stability, security, and freedom.

This prejudice and lack of cooperation have created a global race for nuclear arms. The proliferation of such devices has produced global fear and paranoia. Many countries are racing to make the weapons to use in the tactic of deterrence. Leaders think that intimidation will prevent another country from using the weapons. All that results is an exacerbated fear. As stated by Ronald Reagan, "Nuclear warfare should not be fought and cannot be won." In order to alleviate this fear and make the US more secure, our government must cooperate with other countries to disarm and eliminate the threat of these weapons.

The state of the environment has become more of a perplexing issue in our world today. We have been searching for ways to create our own energy to decrease our dependence on foreign fossil fuels. These "green" technologies will help stimulate the economy by creating jobs. This will allow the US to stabilize and become more self-reliant. With this stability, the US can help spark competition and cooperation in the world market. When other countries see the improvement that "green" technologies have, they will work with the US to create their own "green" technologies. Increased positive international relations will lead to a more cooperative world.

International trade has bridged the gaps between countries and has given Americans access to anything they could ever need. It is phenomenal that traders can move billions of dollars around every day with just the quick click of a mouse. Along with the US being the biggest borrower it may seem that everything is at our fingertips but the past few years have proven wrong. With the economy in shambles, Americans have had to sacrifice the security and stability they have felt in the past. With jobs being lost to outsourcing and others apprehensive, many have cut back on consumer expenditure, which has reduced exports to the US. This has disrupted trade on a global scale and has forced the global economy into a continuous change along with its participants. Whatever may happen, trade will always and always has been an immense factor in the state of the economy. If the US isn't competing on a global scale we will find ourselves swept away and left at the wayside.

We are a nation of immigrants, brought together for the dream of freedom and opportunity, but in our nation's distress, immigration has become a bigger topic of controversy. Immigration laws have changed over time depicting our changing values and toleration limits. In just one year 440 million people, 105 million vehicles, 11 million trucks, and 2.5 million rail cars have crossed the border of the United States. In 1959, over 700,000 refugees from Cuba came to America after Fidel Castro came to power. How many should be allowed to participate in the freedoms of our nation? How many people should be allowed to visit the United States? Should the country's security be risked for the help of others? Our borders are open, allowing illegal aliens to cross freely, allowing large farms and low-wage industries to continually rely on illegal workers who will take less pay for harder work. Slowly we have increased the spotlight onto the border forcing immigrants to cross in more remote areas, but is this enough? Laws have become more strict on these illegal employers, but they don't even have to prove the authenticity of their "legal" employees documents. As mentioned previously, terrorism is becoming more prevalent each and every day. Experts have warned of sleeper cells and innocent legal immigrants' freedoms are being threatened. Sixteen of the Islamic extremists from the Middle East entered the United States on student visas. Maintaining a balance of security and yet still keeping our doors open to other people remains a topic of disputation.

None of these challenging issues have clear solutions. What they do have in common, however, is a need for cooperation. Through cooperation, the United States can relieve the political radical's need for terrorism, in turn helping to alleviate the threat of nuclear destruction. Through cooperation, the United States can help protect and preserve the only place we have to live, and also help to make it better. Through cooperation, the United States can maintain a stable international trade while keeping immigration under control. If the United States can learn to cooperate, despite cultural differences, these issues will cease to be so overpowering and life threatening.

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School: West Lafayette High School

Class: International Relations

Teacher: John Levy

Class Statement: The economy of the United States is no longer an independent entity. The world economy is becoming increasingly interdependent, and the United States is struggling to keep up. In this global economy, the United States should do whatever it takes to remain competitive. So called "Free and Fair Trade" is anything but free and fair and so the United States should make fair trade a priority. Although the US might have to make concessions that put us at a disadvantage in certain sectors, fair trade would allow the United States to use its technology and infrastructure to create new jobs for its populace.

As a nation, the United States must maintain an offensive attack against terrorist organizations posing a threat to American interests. We cannot condone state-sponsored terrorism, especially when these efforts jeopardize American citizens and ideals. While international cooperation and efforts through organizations like the United Nations is imperative, we cannot afford for American efforts to be slowed by such collaboration. If any terrorist threat or attack is made against the United States, we must be ready and willing to respond appropriately.

In an increasingly nuclear age, the United States needs to take a proactive approach on the issue of nuclear proliferation. We must further the development of the National Missile Defense and similar anti-ballistic missile defense systems, allowing us to defer attacks by rogue states or nations with smaller nuclear arsenals. We must also use all resources necessary to prevent nuclear proliferation, including instating a cap on current nuclear stockpiles. These will be used as a deterrent for nuclear states and nations looking to increase their nuclear stockpiles.

The current threat of polluting emissions extends far beyond the physical change to the earth's atmosphere and Global Warming. An increase in deadly infectious diseases may be the most immediate consequence to Global Warming, and the refusal of the U.S. to not sign any low emissions protocol has led to a decline of U.S. Image abroad. It is also worthy to note that Green Technologies present a new viable market for American entrepreneurs. For these reasons it is necessary that the U.S. substantially increase alternative energy incentives and join the rest of the developed nations in signing a protocol, be it the Kyoto Protocol or a similar one, to reduce emissions.

Considering the current difficulties plaguing the United States, we must reconsider how to deal with immigration and recognize that the regulation and of the past is not working in the modern world. We must also recognize that the current process for attaining American citizenship is far too difficult and that it must be restructured. While immigrants already within American borders are necessary to the stability of the nation, the continuance of illegal immigration would be detrimental to the nation and exacerbate our economic system. Therefore, the federal government must strive to halt illegal immigration, document those already within our borders, and restructure the immigration and citizenship procedures.

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