Putting the “Home” In Homeland Security

The Utne Reader has cited Matthew Dallek’s call for “Civic Security,” which appeared in our winter issue, as an example of an “Emerging Idea.” Utne writes:

Since the DHS suffers from a top-down approach that’s failed to engage citizens, Democracy (Winter 2008) suggests that policy makers study Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Office of Civilian Defense, which focused on public participation. Instead of demanding vague for its “war on terror,” the government could enlist volunteers to help guard sensitive facilities, assist first responders, and educate neighbors. A scaled-down DHS could help complement local security efforts by providing equipment and other resources. Finally, a broader definition of security would be helpful, since disease, crime, and environmental problems could prove to be even bigger threats to the nation’s safety than terrorism.

Be sure to read Matthew Dallek’s article for us here.

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