Illegal Immigration

llegal immigration remains a significant challenge for America, with millions of individuals residing within its borders without legal permission. The financial burden of providing social services, education, and job opportunities to these unauthorized immigrants amounts to billions of dollars. The American Legion unequivocally advocates for lawful and manageable immigration processes while firmly opposing illegal immigration and any form of amnesty for those who breach immigration laws. The organization emphasizes the need for effective strategies to prevent unauthorized border crossings, especially in the context of the ongoing war against terrorism and drug trafficking. To address this critical issue, the Legion proposes robust border security measures, which include the implementation of physical barriers and advanced surveillance technologies to ensure the safety and integrity of the nation's borders.

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Junior Law Cadet

The American Legion Junior Law Cadet program offers high school students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of law enforcement through a rigorous and participative vocational learning experience. Structured to mirror the authentic training that recruits undergo, this program provides cadets with demanding physical and mental challenges. Students engage in various activities designed to enhance their understanding of police work, teamwork, discipline, and leadership. Through hands-on training and real-life simulations, participants gain invaluable insights into the responsibilities of law enforcement professionals. This transformative program not only equips students with essential skills but also fosters a sense of citizenship and community awareness, preparing them for future careers in public service and law enforcement. By engaging in this immersive experience, young individuals can build a strong foundation for their aspirations in criminal justice.

Junior Shooting Sports

The American Legion's Junior Shooting Sports Program is a highly esteemed initiative that focuses on imparting essential gun safety and marksmanship training to young individuals. This program stands out as one of the premier youth shooting programs in the United States, known for its comprehensive approach to teaching responsible firearms handling and shooting skills. An outstanding example of its success can be seen in the achievements of its alumni, such as Launi Meili, who made history by winning a gold medal in women's shooting at the 1992 Olympics. Through dedicated training and mentorship, the program equips youth with valuable life skills, instilling discipline, focus, and teamwork, while also fostering a sense of respect for the sport and its safety protocols.

Establishment Clause Lawsuits

The American Legion is committed to preserving America's heritage against what it views as the secular cleansing of its values, particularly through legal challenges that threaten symbols of the nation's religious history, such as the Boy Scouts and the public display of the Ten Commandments. The organization highlights how congressional authority allows courts to impose damages and attorney fees in establishment-clause cases, which is being exploited by legal activists to pressure municipalities, state and federal agencies, and private organizations into severing all ties to religious expression. This often stems from a pursuit of taxpayer-funded attorney fees. In response, the Legion advocates for legislation that would explicitly prevent courts from awarding attorney fees in lawsuits aimed at eradicating religious symbols and associations from the public sphere, reinforcing its dedication to maintaining America's foundational values.

Scholarships

The American Legion offers scholarships designed to assist high school students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and leadership abilities. These scholarships target individuals who are not only excelling in their studies but also actively engage in youth programs or have connections to military service. By providing financial support, the American Legion aims to empower these promising students to pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals. The organization recognizes the importance of fostering the next generation of leaders and is committed to investing in their future through these scholarship opportunities. Whether through participation in community service, youth activities, or a family member's military service, candidates are encouraged to showcase their unique strengths and experiences as they apply for these valuable financial resources.