Some in the Yale community have decried America’s efforts, with dogmatic assertions of imperialism and hypocrisy. While reasoned criticism of one’s government is necessary for a well-functioning democracy, the rhetoric on campus has sunken to crass hyperbole. To counter such protests, we the undersigned, submit:

That, targeting innocent civilians is an unjust act;

That, governments are established to uphold justice and serve their citizens;

That, human dignity demands respect for people of every religion, race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation;

That, the rule of law and self-determination are necessary to protect these rights from an arbitrary authority;

And that, democratic countries, including the United States and its allies, have the right to vigorously oppose those despotic regimes and terrorist organizations that threaten international security.

In light of these principles, we, Yale students from across the political spectrum are pleased to join together to affirm and demonstrate our dedication to the defense of freedom and the spread of democracy throughout the world. We therefore resolve:

That, the United States must strive for moral clarity in its foreign policy;

That, the United States must support its democratic allies around the world;

That, the United States must end its dependence on Middle Eastern oil by utilizing alternative energy sources;

That, the United States must endeavor to eradicate slavery worldwide;

And that, the United States must lead the world in the defense of democracy.

This newly formed Yale College Students for Democracy dedicates itself to upholding this vision of American leadership throughout the world, and calls for Yale to stand alongside the nation in this cause.