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 * The US should adopt a new national anthem. **

According to a 2004 Harris Interactive survey, nearly two out of three Americans (61 percent) are unable to recall all of the words to [|The Star-Spangled Banner]. (EL) The tune of "the star-spangeled banner" is based off an old drinking song, and the lyrics are militaristic. (EL) "I am not in favor of the college's decision to play the **anthem**," said Marlys Weaver, 22, a senior from Goshen and editor of the college newspaper. "Images of war run throughout all the verses of the **anthem**, and Mennonites, as pacifists, work with active and involved non-violent options." (EL) "The Star-Spangled Banner" has been the national anthem since an act of Congress in 1931. (EL)

Quote from [] ,an online petition site to change the National Anthem. "Simply put, our current national anthem “The Star-Spangled Banner” is a song that stirs within the human spirit images of war and pride. We believe that the ideals of war and pride do not serve the highest good of mankind nor do they serve the highest good of our nation." Bottom line: The national athem is based upon war, why not have it be based upon something such as peace or unitity? (MS)