Group Portion
For this nation to be truly successful in the area of homeland security, the public has a role to play as well. The task for your group is to recommend, as a group, a policy position on the subject of martial law.
In the event of a terrorist attack or a natural or man-made disaster, the question posed to you is should people be required to submit to military policing of U.S. streets?
• Your instructor will divide you into small groups of 4-5 people. You are to use the Small Group Discussion Board to discuss and debate the issues in this task.
• On the Small Group Discussion Board, using the Library, Internet, or any other available materials, complete the following:
o Make a post of 5-7 paragraphs discussing the possibility of martial law in the wake of a terrorist attack or a significant natural or man-made disaster.
What is the purpose of martial law? Explain.
What would have to be the magnitude of an event for the government to decide to initiate martial law? Why?
Currently, how likely do you think it is that martial law will be initiated in response to a significant terrorist attack or natural disaster? Explain.
With regard to the U.S. Constitution and civil liberties, what are the arguments against the use of martial law? Explain.
Do you agree or disagree? Explain your position.
• For this assignment, you need to do more than just comment on the other group members' posts.
• Each group member needs to engage in a conversation with each of the other group members.
• A conversation in this context means that you engage back and forth for at least 3 posts each. All posts must be substantive, meaning they must initiate, or continue a dialogue.
Individual Portion
• Following Hurricane Katrina, citizens' guns were confiscated, and many were forced to relocate.
• Address the following in 300-500 words:
o Research and summarize the 1878 Posse Comitatus Act.
o Were any constitutional rights violated during Hurricane Katrina with regard to policing by the military on U.S. soil? Why or why not?
o Why have some argued that the 1878 Posse Comitatus Act should be eliminated? Explain.
Do you agree with its proposed removal? Why or why not?
• All sources must be referenced using APA style.
Group Deliverable
• After the group has debated the issue in accordance with the minimum requirements and to the group's satisfaction, the group must reach a consensus or compromise position.
• You are to deliver the group's recommendation as to whether martial law is an appropriate action in the aftermath of a terrorist attack, or a natural or man-made disaster.
• The recommendation of 600-800 words should consist of a report detailing the group discussion, including the following:
o Explanations of initial positions taken by group members and highlights of the ensuing debate
o Any pertinent information obtained by group members during the Individual Portion of the assignment
o The ultimate compromise reached by the group
• Be sure to reference all sources using APA style.