Americanism

Committee Chair – Stephanie Janji

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

Garden Grove Elks #1952 Americanism program seeks to preserve, honor, and share our love for our country and its flag. Elks believe the flag of our country should be treated with honor and respect at all times. The Order of the Elks is infallibly committed to the condemnation of any act of abuse to the flag as an act of defiance to all it represents.

To join the committee , click HERE.

Americanism Committee Meeting: June 25th @ 7 p.m. – General meeting to discuss upcoming events. All members welcome. Meeting in the East Room. Contact Stephanie Janji 714-724-1168.

The Americanism Committee of the Elks: A Legacy of Patriotism and Service

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE), one of the largest fraternal organizations in the United States, has long stood for the values of charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity. Among its many initiatives, few are as emblematic of its mission as the Americanism Committee. Established in the early 20th century, the Americanism Committee has played a crucial role in fostering patriotism, promoting civic responsibility, and honoring those who serve the nation.

Garden Grove Elks Lodge will be at the 2025 National Night Out at 11301 August 5, 2025. Stop by for a visit and find out what Elks do.

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Today the GG Elks Americanism Committee, led by committee chair Stephanie Janji, donated $300 for the Garden Grove Police Department’s National Night Out.

Garden Grove Elks Lodge #1952 will also be hosting an information table at this event for the community to hear all the good things we do i.e. scholarships, veterans, winter coats for schools, hoop shoot, etc.!

Stop by on August 5 from 5 PM to 8 PM to check it out – bring the kids! It’s a family-friendly event! GGPD, 11301 Acacia Pkwy in Garden Grove.

#ggelkslodge1952 #ggelks1952americanism #BPOElks #GardenGrovePD

Flag Day Ritual was held at the Garden Grove Elks Lodge on Thursday, June 12th. Participating in the march of the history of the American Flag from origin to present day, the flags were carried in by members of the Girl Scout Troop 21004 (Fountain Valley) and the Boy Scout Troop 1004 (Golden West District). Also assisting in the flag ceremony were members of the Seal Beach Naval Battalion with Honor Guard.

The Emblem Club #279 presented the flag folding history in a wonderful presentation explaining what each of the folds mean when folding the American Flag.

Presentations were made, songs were sung and poetry was read.

Members of the **Seal Beach Naval Battalion**

Origins and Formation

The roots of the Americanism Committee trace back to the post-World War I era. As the United States emerged from the Great War, there was a heightened sense of national pride and a growing emphasis on instilling patriotic values in the public. Recognizing this cultural shift, the Elks formalized their commitment to American ideals by creating the Americanism Committee at the national level in 1921.

The committee was initially tasked with promoting patriotism among youth, encouraging the display of the American flag, and organizing observances for national holidays such as Flag Day and Independence Day. The Elks had already been instrumental in promoting Flag Day as a national holiday—an effort that dates back to 1907 when the Elks held the first formal Flag Day observance. This commitment to the flag and the values it represents would become central to the Americanism Committee’s mission.

World War II and Civic Engagement

The Americanism Committee gained further prominence during and after World War II. During the war years, the Elks were actively involved in supporting the war effort through bond drives, community service, and programs to boost morale among troops and civilians alike. The Americanism Committee expanded its scope to include education about the duties of citizenship and the importance of national unity during times of crisis.

Following the war, the committee turned its attention to promoting American values during the Cold War, a period marked by ideological conflict and concern over internal threats to democracy. The Elks launched essay contests and educational programs in schools to teach young Americans about the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the responsibilities of citizenship. These initiatives were not only educational but also a response to the growing fears of communism and the perceived erosion of American values.

Programs and Activities

Throughout the decades, the Americanism Committee has sponsored a wide array of programs designed to engage citizens at all levels. Among its signature initiatives are the annual Americanism Essay Contest, open to students in grades 5 through 8. Each year, thousands of students across the country participate, writing essays on topics related to patriotism, civic duty, and national pride.

The committee also works to ensure that American flags are properly displayed in public spaces, schools, and at Elks Lodges. In addition, they support programs that honor veterans and first responders, including recognition ceremonies and partnerships with local military organizations.

Another notable aspect of the Americanism Committee’s work is its focus on community involvement. Lodges are encouraged to collaborate with schools, civic organizations, and government bodies to sponsor events like naturalization ceremonies, Memorial Day parades, and public forums on American history and governance.

Continuing Relevance

In the 21st century, the Americanism Committee remains a cornerstone of the Elks’ national mission. As debates about civic identity and national unity continue to evolve, the committee provides a steady voice advocating for respect, understanding, and active participation in democratic life.

The committee’s enduring focus on youth education ensures that new generations appreciate the freedoms and responsibilities that come with American citizenship. Meanwhile, its ongoing efforts to honor those who serve—from military personnel to public servants—reinforce the Elks’ role as a patriotic and community-centered organization.

Conclusion

The Americanism Committee of the Elks stands as a testament to the organization’s long-standing dedication to American ideals. From its origins in the patriotic fervor of the early 20th century to its modern-day programs promoting civic engagement and national pride, the committee has been instrumental in shaping a more informed and united citizenry. As the United States continues to face new challenges, the Americanism Committee’s mission remains as vital today as it was a century ago.

Garden Grove Elks #1952 has proudly supported the following activities in our community:

Memorial Day at Magnolia Memorial Park Cemetery 26 May 2025