Oct 19, 2018 | The Informed Citizen
by Jodi L. Miller Every American is familiar with “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Some may even be able to sing it or at least get through “O say can you see, by the dawn’s early light….” On March 3, 1931, President Herbert Hoover signed the law that would officially...
Sep 10, 2018 | The Informed Citizen
by Jodi L. Miller Known by many names—Stars & Stripes and Old Glory—the U.S. flag has become an iconic American symbol of patriotism. Some denounce its desecration while others see that act as the true test of freedom. On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental...
Sep 10, 2018 | The Informed Citizen
by Jodi L. Miller If you’ve ever watched an episode of Law & Order, you know that the police need a search warrant to enter your home. What you may not know is that was not always the case. The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution states: “The right of the...
Apr 23, 2018 | The Informed Citizen
by Jodi L. Miller If you are unaware you are breaking a law, should you be held accountable? In general, the law says yes. The legal principle of ignorantia juris non excusat (ignorance of the law excuses not) or ignorantia legis neminem excusat (ignorance of law...
Apr 23, 2018 | The Informed Citizen
by Jodi L. Miller In many countries around the world, citizens are subject to the arbitrary rulings of dictators or those in power. In the United States, even though it is never mentioned in the U.S. Constitution, citizens are governed by the concept of the rule of...
Apr 11, 2018 | The Informed Citizen
by Jodi L. Miller In international relations, military might is all well and good, but sometimes a softer touch is needed—that’s where the art of diplomacy comes in. Benjamin Franklin is considered America’s first diplomat. In 1776, he was sent to France to help...
