What Does Patriotism Mean to Me? Part III

Patriotism is not a passive trait.  Our government, from its creation, never intended patriotism to be the acceptance of the status quo nor blind support for those in power. By outlining the fundamental rights of people and their duty to overthrow tyrannical government, the Declaration of Independence demands that Americans make an active, attentive commitment to this country.  

For me, American patriotism is a promise to intentionally engage in the continuous effort to better our country until we truly have peace, justice, freedom and dignity for ALL. Love for this country isn’t about celebrating who we’ve been or where we’ve come from. Love for this country, true patriotism, is about striving toward who we can and should be, together, at home and abroad. Always.

Let’s continue to raise the flag, and the bar, to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for ALL of us.

YWCA Alaska Board Member, CR