Delegation Resource Manual: Month by Month Implementation Guide
Page
56
YMCA PA Youth & Government Program
The Honorable Virgil H. Goode, Jr.
1520 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Congressman Goode,
My name is T.J. and I am a twelfth grader from Pennsylvania High School. I am very
concerned about how our nation celebrates that Fourth of July holiday and hope you
can answer a couple of questions.
In the 225 years since the Declaration of Independence was written, our understanding of this
document and its importance to the history of this nation has increasingly declined. According to a
recent poll of graduating high school seniors, almost half of them did not realize that the July 4
holiday commemorates the signing of this great document. Years ago people would celebrate the
Fourth by gathering together to read the Declaration of Independence and discuss the importance
of the tiny American colonies breaking free from the tyranny of the British Empire. Today the
holiday is marked by mega sales at the local shopping mall and contests to consume the most hot
dogs in fifteen minutes. These are great for the economy, but they certainly do not encourage
respect for freedom, liberty or the sacrifices of past generations.
I believe it is up to legislators to provide guidance to our country by passing a law requiring all stores
to close at 2pm on July 4. This would allow all Americans to properly celebrate the holiday rather
than working or shopping. Congress could also encourage a more thoughtful approach to the day
by providing forums for discussion of our history and readings of the Declaration of Independence
nationwide.
I am interested in your reaction to this proposal. Is this an issue you would be willing to discuss
with other members of Congress? Do you have any suggestions for making my proposal appealing
to you and other legislators?
I appreciate your consideration of these questions and look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Imma Yagger
Begin by
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you are and why
you are writing.
Offer a
specific
solution.
Ask that
the official
write back
with his or
her opinion
and thank
him or her
for reading
your letter.
Explain why
you think your
issue is so
important.
