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Have you ever experienced feeling completely repulsed by something that you previously loved? I have. I remember when I was attending college in South Texas. I had arrived in the big city from a rural Alaska community with a population of less than 2,000. Everything was so different. While shopping at the local grocer, I recall being mesmerized by a pyramid-like display of bushel upon bushel of luscious strawberries; they were the size of peaches and as bright as red carnations. I imagined hearing a choir sing as I feasted my eyes upon them. I bought a bushel to take to my new home. I savored them at every meal, ate them as snacks and made desserts with them. I took advantage of every opportunity to have strawberries. I even displayed the bright, succulent berries in a bowl on the dining table. When the bushel was nearing empty, I bought another. So went the semester; one bushel at a time. After many weeks, those mouth-watering berries began to lose their appeal. No longer did I long for the sweet, juicy fruit; instead, my gag reflex was triggered by the mere sight of them. I had had enough.
Similar to my experience with the strawberries, my gag reflex is triggered by the sight of an American flag emblazoned on fascist propaganda or used as a backdrop for authoritarian ideals. I have been force-fed a steady autocratic diet that I can no longer palate. Our symbol of liberty, freedom and justice for all has been politicized by a faction that acts as if it exercises exclusive ownership of our flag, authority over our republic, and control of our rights. I ashamedly admit that I resist displaying the American flag because I do not want to be mistaken as a fascist who spreads hate and misinformation under the guise of righteousness.
The American flag belongs to every citizen, regardless of their political beliefs, background, or ethnicity. It is a symbol of our shared history, values, and dreams. When we proudly display the flag, we honor the sacrifices made by countless individuals who fought for the liberties we enjoy today. From the battles of the Revolutionary War to the civil rights movements, the flag has been a beacon of hope and evidence of our enduring spirit. It stands for the principles of equality, justice, and freedom that are foundational to our nation.
One of the most compelling values represented by the American flag is unity. In these divisive times, it is crucial to remember that we are one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. The flag reminds us of our common bonds and shared destiny. By embracing it as a common symbol, we can bridge divides and come together as one people. Whether we are Democrats, Republicans, or Independents, we all have a role to play in shaping the future of America.
Another fundamental value the flag represents is equality. Our country was built on the principle that each of us is equal. This principle is more than just a historical ideal; it is a commitment that we must continuously strive to uphold. Issues of race and gender remain at the forefront of our national discourse. By proudly displaying the flag, we affirm our commitment to combating racial and gender inequality and working towards a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
The flag also symbolizes freedom, a value that is deeply ingrained in the American identity. This includes the freedom of speech, the freedom to practice one’s religion, and the freedom to live without fear of persecution. In a diverse nation like ours, where people of various backgrounds and beliefs coexist, it is crucial to honor and protect these freedoms. The flag serves as a reminder of our obligation to defend the rights of all citizens, ensuring that everyone can live freely and without discrimination.
Citizenship is another vital aspect of the American identity that the flag represents. Whether we are natural-born citizens or immigrants who have chosen to make this country our home, we all share a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of our nation. The flag is a symbol of our collective commitment to the democratic process, civic engagement, and the pursuit of the common good. Displaying the flag is a way to celebrate the diverse tapestry of our population and the unique contributions each person brings to our society.
In 2024, as we navigate complex and often contentious political landscapes, it is more important than ever to find common ground. Issues such as health care, immigration, climate change, and economic inequality are deeply polarizing, yet they affect us all. The American flag can serve as a unifying symbol, reminding us that despite our differences, we are all Americans, and we all have a stake in the future of our country.
We must also recognize that patriotism is not confined to a single political ideology. Loving our country and striving to make it better is a shared endeavor that transcends party lines. By embracing the values represented by our flag, we can move beyond partisan divides and work together toward solutions that benefit everyone.
From this day forward, I will proudly display our American flag as the powerful symbol of unity, equality, freedom, and citizenship; the values for which it has always been known. I encourage everyone to do the same. The American flag belongs to all of us, and it is our shared responsibility to honor and uphold the values it represents. Let us ignite a movement by proudly displaying the American flag as evidence of our commitment to a more just, inclusive, and united nation. In doing so, we can foster a sense of common purpose and build a brighter future for all Americans. Let us move forward not with division, but with a renewed commitment to unity and respect for one another.
Carrie Owen is a retired speech-language pathologist who worked for nearly 30 years providing speech therapy services to many remote communities in Interior Alaska. She spends her retirement enjoying Alaska’s great outdoors.
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