Universal Declaration: America is Not Just the USA, and the USA is Not the Whole of America
Preamble
Acknowledging that the term "America" refers to a vast geographical region encompassing multiple nations and cultures, it is essential to clarify and affirm that the United States of America (USA) is but one of the many countries within this region. This declaration aims to promote a more accurate understanding and respectful acknowledgment of the diversity and richness of the Americas.
Article 1: Definition of the Americas
The Americas comprise the continents of North America and South America, including all associated countries, territories, and islands. This includes, but is not limited to, Canada, Mexico, the United States of America, Central American nations, Caribbean islands, and all South American countries.
Article 2: Recognition of Sovereign Nations
Each country within the Americas is a sovereign nation with its unique cultural, historical, and political identity. The United States of America is one of these nations and should not be considered synonymous with the entirety of the Americas.
Article 3: Cultural Diversity
The Americas are home to a diverse range of cultures, languages, and traditions. It is crucial to recognize and celebrate this diversity, understanding that each nation contributes uniquely to the collective identity of the region.
Article 4: Geographic Distinction
Geographically, the Americas are divided into distinct regions, including North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America. Each region has its own geographical features, climates, and ecosystems that define its character and influence its inhabitants' way of life.
Article 5: Historical Context
The history of the Americas is complex and multifaceted, involving the pre-Columbian civilizations, the colonial era, and the modern independence movements. The history of the United States of America is a significant part of this broader narrative but does not encompass the entirety of the American experience.
Article 6: Economic Contributions
The economies of the Americas are interconnected, with each country contributing to the region's economic vitality. It is important to recognize the economic roles of all American nations, not just the United States of America, in the global economy.
Article 7: Educational Initiatives
Educational systems across the Americas should strive to teach a comprehensive view of the region, ensuring that students understand the distinction between the USA and the rest of the Americas. This includes accurate representation in curricula, textbooks, and educational materials.
Article 8: Media Representation
Media outlets should accurately represent the Americas, avoiding the conflation of the United States of America with the entire region. Journalists and content creators should strive for precision in language and imagery to reflect the true diversity of the Americas.
Article 9: International Relations
In international diplomacy and relations, it is imperative to recognize the distinct identities and contributions of all American nations. Policies and agreements should reflect the understanding that the USA is one part of a larger, interconnected region.
Article 10: Geographic and Demographic Statistics
The United States of America constitutes approximately 42% of the land area of North America and about 24% of the land area of the entire Americas, which includes both North and South America. Demographically, the USA represents roughly 32% of the population of the Americas.
Article 11: Conclusion
This declaration reaffirms the importance of recognizing and respecting the distinction between the United States of America and the broader Americas. By doing so, we honor the rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and contributions that define our shared region.
Signatories
This declaration invites individuals, organizations, educational institutions, media outlets, and governments to endorse and commit to promoting a more accurate and respectful understanding of the Americas.
This declaration is intended to foster greater awareness and appreciation of the diverse nations that make up the Americas, promoting unity and respect among all inhabitants of this vast region.
Marie Seshat Landry
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