Nothing moves me quite like the first notes of our national anthem. The melody resonates with the rich, complex history of America, filled with both its struggles and triumphs. I firmly believe that those who choose to kneel during that anthem express just as much patriotism as those who stand.
I identify as a proud liberal and a proud American. The two identities can coexist, and being part of the Republican party doesn’t grant exclusive rights to patriotism. Sorry, conservatives; just because you’re waving a massive flag doesn’t mean your love for America surpasses mine.
Am I often let down by my country? Absolutely — especially over these last few years. The chaotic nature of the Trump administration and the razor-thin margins of the recent election have left me feeling disheartened. Yet, I experience disappointment in my children at times too, when they make poor choices. That doesn’t lessen my love for them or my pride in who they are, even when I wish for better decisions.
I yearn for a better America — one that truly serves everyone. However, while we work to dismantle outdated systems and build new ones, we must also honor those who have sacrificed to ensure we have the freedom to pursue these changes.
My grandfather, John Thompson, was a World War I veteran. At ninety, he reflected on his experiences at the Battle of St. Mihiel, recounting the grueling 33-hour march to the frontlines. His words remind me of the horrors that countless soldiers endured for a cause they believed in. This shared experience of sacrifice and valor is not exclusive to any political group; it belongs to all of us.
I have a family rich in military service: several uncles, brothers-in-law, and a father-in-law who served in Vietnam. Each of them has their stories of bravery and challenges faced. While only one of my relatives made the ultimate sacrifice, each willingly accepted the risks that come with military service.
I’m weary of the notion that only Republicans can appreciate the sacrifices of our servicemen and women. Veterans’ Day and every day of remembrance rooted in patriotism should not be the domain of the right. Just because I aspire to change America to be truly great for everyone doesn’t make me anti-American — far from it.
As writer Lisa Morgan insightfully stated, “Many struggle to reconcile our nation’s dark past with their love for the country, leading to a distorted view of what patriotism means.” This selective memory results in a shallow understanding of love for our nation, turning it into a mere collection of empty symbols. True patriotism isn’t measured by how loudly you display your love for the flag or how many bumper stickers you own.
It lies in working toward a better future, in advocating for equality, and in the grassroots movements that challenge injustice. It’s found in the voices of those who protest and strive for change. Wearing a T-shirt with an eagle or a MAGA hat does not make you a patriot. Genuine love for our country and hope for its future — even when the path is messy — is what real patriotism embodies.
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Summary:
This article asserts that patriotism is not the exclusive domain of any political party, particularly the right-wing. It emphasizes that love for one’s country can manifest in various forms, including protest and advocacy for change. The author shares personal family experiences of military service to highlight that sacrifices made for the nation are shared across all political spectrums. True patriotism is about striving for a better America, not merely displaying symbols.
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