Commentary

Rock the Vote. Remember when Madonna did it in the early 90’s by wrapping herself in the American Flag for their very first PSA? Ten years later, Snoop Dogg joined the movement and launched the bus tour that traveled across the country registering voters and educating youth on the issues that affect them daily. Countless other recording artists and actors have made their contributions by sharing in the mission of mobilizing young US voters to become involved in their future. Now, Christina Aguilera has stepped up to deliver the message during a crucial election year for Rock the Vote.

Following suit with Madonna, Aguilera also used Old Glory in the announcement, but took things one step further. She swaddled her baby in an American flag for their kick-off public service announcement, which has obviously left people talking and blogging about that controversial image. Personally, I don’t find this measure offensive, but apparently many people think it’s disgraceful and warrants a review of flag rules. Honestly, I’d rather see a baby wrapped in a flag opposed to one draped over Madonna’s used body anyday. (No offense Madonna, but that image still leaves me with a bad taste in my mouth especially after watching Truth or Dare.)

Seriously though, whether it’s Christina or regular Jane Doe off the street featured in that particular PSA, the marketing concept for the Rock the Vote ad has stirred up some dust and big debate. For me, a baby blanket represents warmth, security, and care. If we combine that with a mother swaddling her child, it creates a powerful visual of love, protection, and hope for the future. Actually, it’s a feeling that I can relate to our country, its institutions and traditions. Now, if the flag would have been utilized as a diaper or burp cloth, then I would be outraged by the unflattering image.

While I could seriously care less if Christina Aguilera and her child want me to vote, I do think it’s a bold concept. Hollywood has never influenced my political views one way or the other. Then again, I’m not quite in that young voter category anymore so the PSA doesn’t affect me much. Yet I commend Rock the Vote for sustaining their efforts for nearly two decades and being creative with their mission. After 18 years of intersecting music, people, culture and politics, Rock the Vote has definitely achieved brand recognition and created a platform that lays the groundwork for an even more powerful organization in 2008 and beyond.

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