July 4 in a polarized, politicized era
Can my patriotism be politically neutral, separated from my country’s actions if I disagree with those actions? Can it be separated from those who call themselves patriots but who don’t embrace the ideals I think this country stands for? Yes, it can, and I can call myself patriotic while still yelling the loudest when I think this country has gone off track.
Embrace the ideals America stands for
I know that many people are so upset with the state of politics and division in our country that they struggled with the idea of celebrating the Fourth of July this year. Patriotism is and always has been a slippery and problematic thing. We’ll get back to that.
The overlooked importance of education
To the editor:
When young men of Ancient Athens reached the age of 17, they took what was known as “The Athenian Oath.”