MFD #55 - embracing patriotism

Hey all,

It’s a holiday week so we’re keeping this one short and sweet!

This week’s action is to embrace patriotism, and to connect patriotism to democracy. Wear that flag shirt, make a Fourth of July dessert, read an Independence Day book to a kid (or the Declaration of Independence to yourself), or find another action that resonates with you. And remember: participating in and protecting US democracy is deeply patriotic.

Why this action? It’s almost July 4th, and celebrating it is “an opportunity for a renewed dedication to the real meaning of Independence Day.” As we said last year, flags and patriotism have become partisan markers, but that needs to stop. Patriotism can be for all of us, and those of us working to protect American democracy arguably have the deepest claim to it of all. Of course, patriotism is more than just symbolic displays; it is an attachment to a nation that can, as Todd Gitlin has noted, pull us “backward, toward chauvinistic bluster and popular silence, or forward, to popular energy and democratic renewal.” (p 32) So while embracing patriotism may feel hard right now, as we live through a “moment of national disorientation,” we can remember that patriotism can propel us towards democratic renewal. Coupling patriotism with a compelling vision of the future is also a way to bring more Americans into the fold, helping to “win over the majority of Americans who love their country but also believe that it needs to change.” (Phew! That was a pretty deep explanation for why you should bake that flag cake, huh?)

Look at you, taking action! Look at us, doing it together.

In solidarity and with love,
Moms for Democracy

PS — Good Trouble Lives On has a weekend of action coming up next month (July 17-19). Check the map for an action near you. If there’s not already one nearby — maybe you and your friends could host one?