ONE NATION, ONE FLAG, ONE PEOPLE
An Initiative of the National Association of Basketball Coaches
GOAL
In light of the terrorist attack in New York City and Washington D.C. on September 11, 2001, the ongoing war on terror in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the devastation caused by natural disasters, the goal of One Nation, One Flag, One People is to encourage the college basketball community, their fans and others to acknowledge the heroic efforts of our nations' servicemen and women, firefighters, emergency response personnel, police officers and health care workers. By acknowledging and celebrating the values we all share as Americans, it is hoped that this initiative can help to foster the need for all Americans to unify and rally around the defense of our nation and the eradication of terror activities worldwide.
RATIONALE
As we celebrate the 232nd birthday of the United States of America in 2008, we are reminded of the principles on which our nation was founded. The ideals of liberty, freedom, justice and equality pepper our nation's founding documents. American Presidents from Abraham Lincoln to George W. Bush have stated the importance for our nation to stand as a shining beacon of liberty and freedom in the world. On September 11, 2001, the United States of America and the ideals which form the bedrock foundation of our country, was brutally assaulted in one of the most devastating attacks in our nation's history. Again this basketball season, the NABC asks that the basketball community, at all levels, show their support for the many families who lost loved ones in this tragedy and all American tragedies. Also, to show unified support for the emergency rescue personnel, to those hero's who protect our welfare and well being daily, and the men and women who have been and will be called to service in defense of our nation. It is important and indeed an opportunity for our student-athletes to participate in this national show of unity. The same unity and sense of purpose players showcase on the basketball court can serve as a shining example of how a unified America can become victorious in the struggle for freedom. Together, we can abolish and defeat terrorism, hatred and injustice that plague the world community.
ACTION PLAN
(Ceremony should take place prior to player introductions)
1. Both teams line up along the free throw line in front of their bench area prior to player introductions to acknowledge the reading of one of the sample PSA's and the presentation of our National Anthem
Sample Public Service Announcements A. As our nation celebrates its 232nd birthday, we are reminded of the sacrifices Americans have made in the name of liberty, freedom, and justice. To honor those who serve our country as law enforcement officials, firefighters, and military personnel, please join both schools in honoring America by standing as one nation, under one flag, and as one people for the playing of the national anthem.
B. More than 230 years ago, the Declaration of Independence guaranteed Americans the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Through the sacrifice of law enforcement officials, firefighters, and military personnel, our country has stood as a beacon of freedom throughout the world. Let us honor their sacrifices by standing as one nation, under one flag, and as one people for the playing of our national anthem.
C. As the United States of America shines as a beacon of freedom throughout the world, let us honor all of our law enforcements officials, firefighters, and military personnel, who help protect our freedoms and keep us safe, by standing as one nation, under one flag, and as one people for the playing of our national anthem.
D. As the United States of America shines as a beacon of freedom throughout the world, let us honor all of our law enforcements officials, firefighters, and military personnel, by standing as one nation, under one flag, and as one people for the playing of our national anthem.
2. After our National Anthem is presented, the players and coaches shake hands with each other and depart the floor to prepare for tip-off.
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Reggie Minton
NABC Deputy Executive Director (816) 878-6222 x103 (816) 878-6223-fax e-mail: Reggie@NABC.com