“I pledge allegiance to my flag and to the country for which it stands; one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” Address to New Citizens _A. P. Johnson, Publisher Grand Rapids “News”_ Songs _Audience_ Address _Raymond F. Crist, Director of Citizenship, Bureau of Naturalization, Washington, D. C._ “Star-Spangled Banner” _Audience_ Mrs. Henrietta Briggs-Wall of Washington, D. C., has presented admirably the spirit of this movement in a pamphlet proposing a general “New Patriot Plan,” to utilize the Fourth of July throughout the country for the celebration of the “civic birthday,” alike of the native born who, during the past year, have attained the voting age of 21 years, and the newly naturalized foreign born. “In other countries,” says Mrs. Briggs-Wall, “much ado is made over the crowning of kings and queens who attempt to rule over others; there is much more occasion for general rejoicing when newly enfranchised citizens attain their share in the honors and duties of self-government.” The plan proposes in general a Fourth-of-July celebration in every community in America to which the newly enfranchised shall be invited as guests of honor. The author says, among other things: The natural birthday is remembered by the family; the “civic birthday” should be honored by the community. Inauguration ceremonies should accompany this newly acquired power. These exercises may consist of addresses to them [the newly enfranchised], music, a variety of activities for their entertainment and instruction; all of which, as an object lesson, will promote the patriotism of all the people. Prizes may be offered to those who bring the greatest number to register in the “Record Book of New Patriots”; also to those who may try, if they choose, to write the best essays on “true patriotism.” ... The customs and convenience of different localities will suggest varying methods. It is appropriate that the birthday of freedom, the civic birthday of our country, should be chosen to celebrate the civic birthday of the citizen. It is the best possible holiday for patriotic purposes; the audience is already furnished, and the minds of the people are in a receptive mood. It occurs at the time of year when picnics, excursions, and out-of-door celebrations of all sorts can be easily arranged in honor, and for the pleasure, of the new patriots.