In a time marked by its divisive nature, it is hard to say I love my country and truly mean it. Scrolling through Instagram and TikTok, I face comment after comment flaunting the idea of American superiority over other countries, but most surprisingly over other Americans. Thus, enthusiastic nationalism has been associated with the Right—ardently celebrating the Fourth of July, displaying the American flag, wearing patriotic garb, and more. Progressive-leaning people often shy away from expressing pride in their country. However, as we enter 2025, it’s time for Democrats to take pride in American values.
The United States was founded as a land of opportunity for immigrants, free from an overbearing monarch. To this day, people flock to this country in hopes of a better life than the ones they had in their home countries. Progressives can be proud of the fact that despite the pushback against immigration, policies such as the Fourteenth Amendment and the Diversity Visa Program (which grants 50,000 visas annually) were able to be passed. The hard-fought battles of liberal politicians and activists have cemented the US as a symbol of economic mobility and freedom no matter the journey to getting there. In 2021, 74% of the 1.5 million immigrants came to the States for work or school. The fight that these people make to come to the United States illustrates the faith that immigrants have in this country, so why shouldn’t Democrats believe in America too?
Minorities didn’t stop at simply gaining citizenship, they fought for equality among everyone. During and after the Civil War, women allied with Black Americans against slavery and for the right to vote. After the Reconstruction Amendments were passed (giving African Americans birthright citizenship and suffrage), women continued the fight for equal voting rights until the Nineteenth Amendment was passed. As groups of people filtered in, they weren’t satisfied with the state of the US—so they advocated to make the country in their vision of equality. Progressives can draw inspiration from these activists who knew America could be better for them and others. Abolitionist Lucretia Mott states she is “no advocate for passivity,” something everyone should remember when speaking up against injustice.
As America’s political parties drive a deeper wedge between citizens, it is important to not turn away from loving your country. Although the actions of legislators often seem to have the intent of shutting people out, a love for this land of hope and success drives the efforts for positive change.