MEMORIAL DAY: IS THE MEANING LOST?
- Stephanie Márquez-Villafañe
- May 28, 2018
- 2 min read
The annual Memorial Day parade happened this past weekend in Perth Amboy (as in most other US towns and cities that host a parade). The parade route covered a good portion of the City, heading through our busy and dense downtown area into our quiet and peaceful waterfront. The local school marching band played their rendition of popular patriotic tunes as they do every year. First Responder sirens roared through the air as the local police department escorted the parade, blocked traffic and kept everyone safe.
It was all fine and dandy until the last third (or so) of the parade line up passed through. During this portion of the parade, trap music and reggaetton blared suppressing the sound of the sirens of the police cars. Not only did the music alter the ambiance, it also disrespected the purpose and meaning of commemorating Memorial Day.
Memorial Day began as a day to remember and honour those who were lost during the Civil War (the deadliest war by far in USA history). While the exact origins of the tradition remains unknown, it is known that many towns and cities around the country held commemoration services. Graves were decorated, family of fallen soldiers were visited, prayers were sent above and communities came together to reflect on the impact war and battle had made not only to the particular community but, to the larger United States of America. Parades were, and continue to be, a popular way to get the community together.
While I understand that times have changed, the fact that men and women in uniform are still dying due to job related matters is still prominent. PBS published an informational website section on Memorial Day which stated "[...] all Americans must take a moment to remember the sacrifice of our valiant military service members, first responders and their families. Memorial Day is a day of both celebration and grief, accounting for the honor of our heroes and reflecting on their tragic loss." (http://www.pbs.org/national-memorial-day-concert/memorial-day/meaning/).
Ultimately, I believe the music played towards the end of the parade was inappropriate and pushes the national agenda of commercializing holidays. The point of having the day off from school and work is to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our rights. It's to comfort those people who are reminded daily of the sacrifices of their loved one(s). And whilst parades can be fun, I think that now more than ever patriotic tunes needed to be blared through the City considering the population and local and national environment. Similarly, let's not forget the members of our own community who have passed or have suffered due to the ongoing wars being fought oversees. Let's not forget the true meaning of Memorial Day and why we observe the occasion.
Stop teaching our community to disrespect our veterans and active service members and start teaching them to value the sacrifices made in order for our country to remain safe and our rights be protected.
HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY TO ALL!
MAY WE REMEMBER THE SACRIFICES OF OUR SERVICEMEN AND SERVICEWOMEN!
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