When discussing the Selective Service System, many may find it to be a foreign concept—especially women and those with daughters. For American males, however, this term directly correlates to the draft, which requires them to register.
As a mother of three sons who will soon reach adulthood, I often grapple with the implications of this requirement, despite my personal stance as a woman who doesn’t face the same obligation. The anxiety over my sons potentially losing their autonomy in this matter is palpable, especially considering that both my father and partner chose to serve in the military.
Surprisingly, this topic rarely surfaces in conversation. Many individuals are unaware of the Selective Service System’s existence, so allow me to clarify. The draft was officially abolished in January 1973, but in 1980, amid Cold War tensions, President Jimmy Carter reinstated mandatory registration for all American men aged 18 to 25. Young men must register within 30 days of turning 18, and failing to do so can result in severe consequences, including a prison sentence of up to five years or a hefty $250,000 fine. This means that not only are your sons at risk, but parents could also face legal repercussions for aiding them in evading this obligation. Furthermore, without registration, young men are ineligible for government employment opportunities or financial assistance for education.
If you’re questioning the rationale behind this requirement, you’re not alone. Former President Ronald Reagan criticized the Selective Service, suggesting it implies that children belong to the state—a notion he associated with oppressive regimes. However, the reality is that this requirement applies only to males. Despite the strides women have made, including gaining the right to serve in combat roles, they are exempt from registering for the Selective Service.
It’s almost as if the government breathes a sigh of relief that the Selective Service System remains under the radar. The official website, www.sss.gov, features outdated language, such as “Registration: It’s What a Man’s Got to Do,” which only adds to the anachronistic feel. Moreover, the site mentions that individuals assigned female at birth do not need to register if they transition to male. Conversely, those assigned male at birth must register if they transition to female.
If a family has only one son, the Selective Service still mandates that he register, even if he is the last in line to continue the family name. This raises an important point: “they can be drafted.” Fortunately, daughters are not subject to this requirement and can choose whether or not to serve. If a son has a disability, he must still register; however, healthy daughters are exempt.
Given that women can now serve in any military capacity, one must question the fairness of this system. Arguments against women registering often cite the need for women to remain safe at home for future generations or the belief that not every woman desires military service. Yet, these arguments could easily apply to men as well. Why should equality be selectively enforced?
As a mother of only sons, I find it troubling that our government believes it holds the legal right to compel them into service—potentially even into combat situations. Meanwhile, friends with daughters can rest easy, knowing their children are not subject to the same fate and have the option to serve if they choose.
If we truly uphold the belief that women are capable of performing any role that men can, then it is time to reevaluate the Selective Service registration requirement. Without including women in this process, the draft can never genuinely be deemed “fair and equitable.”
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In summary, the Selective Service System continues to impose registration on young men while excluding women, raising questions about fairness and equality. As society evolves, so too should the laws governing military service.
Keyphrase: Selective Service System and Equality
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