True Patriotism

CMK on July 4th, 2008

At the risk of committed the mortal sin of Lack of Patriotism, I’ve been reflecting today on a proper response to the Independence Day Holiday. Patriotism according to the American Heritage Dictionary means “love of and devotion to one’s country.” I have a profound love for America and devote myself to make it a better place to be. Unfortunately, patriotism has become a conservative buzzword which means an unquestioned approval of the country’s policies. With all due respect to these folks,I think they are traitors. It is much more patriotic to believe that the USA can be better than it is today.

I read the Declaration of Independence today (h/t Ben) and found myself inspired at the boldness with which the Founding Fathers advocated the opposing of tyranny. They seemed to be saying that it is the duty of people, when a government fails to fulfill its responsibilities to rise up and change it. And what is the role of government? To secure the unalienable Rights that all men (and women) hold, among which are “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” Whenever a government fails to do so, we are required to take action, or at least say the real patriots of Revolutionary lore.

Thus, I would argue that true patriotism involves the questioning of government when it fails to live up to the ideals set forth in our own Declaration. When a President abuses power, when war is used irresponsibly, and when the lower-rung of society is neglected in favor of the rich and powerful our rights are being alienated. We must stand up. To refuse to do so and to rubber stamp the poor decisions of a corrupt government is anything but patriotic. It is pure treason.

I also read this morning my favorite Independance Day speech. It was delivered by Frederick Douglas in 1852. Invited to speak at a patriotic festival, Douglas was faced with a choice. He could do what others expected, lauding the wonderful American government or honestly speak of the current state of the affairs for Southern slaves. He chose the latter, raising his voice for those who did not have a voice at the time. This may be the most patriotic of all July 4th speeches, more patriotic than Lee Greenwood songs and flag-waving parades. I fully recommend a reading of this speech to gather the full essence of Douglas’ remarks. It will give you goosebumps.

All around our home last evening, fireworks were popping. Thousands of dollars going off within earshot. When patriotism has been reduced to a grilled hamburger and pyrotechnics, we have lost the true intention of the fledgling group of patriots responding to the oppression of the King. When to question a President brings your patriotism into question, we have settled for a bastardized view of our country. Let us hoist our flags today in the spirit of true patriotism, refusing to accept an America where any one’s rights are removed from them. May God bless America and may America be a blessing to the world.

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