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Can We Love America Without Disclaimers?
One of the best ways to destroy a country is to get the people living in that country to hate it or be ashamed of it.
On this 4th of July weekend, I have a simple question: Can we love America without disclaimers? Or must we bury our patriotism in qualifications and apologies?
According to many national surveys, patriotism continues to decline with fewer Americans (especially younger Americans) expressing any pride in their national identity.
What’s more, it’s become trendy for people to respond to just about any expression of patriotism with some form of protest or disapproval. To do otherwise, these people allege, would be to ignore injustice.
In the minds of many, patriotism itself is associated with injustice.
Or racism and white supremacy.
Or the patriarchy.
Or Donald Trump.
Or whatever.
It seems patriotism these days is associated with everything except what patriotism is really all about.
Patriotism isn’t about agreeing with your government, believing your nation can do no wrong, or aligning yourself with a politician or political party.
