Celebrate, learn about America

Celebrate America tomorrow and every day.
But as you celebrate, be clear-eyed about this country’s history even as you rejoice in its freedoms.
After all, it’s wise to remember that slavery was a part of the American landscape for generations. Recall that when it comes to genocide, this nation’s history has its own bloodstains. And keep in mind that until the early 20th century half of America’s adult citizens didn’t have the right to vote.
There’s no need to dwell on those imperfections, but they provide perspective as the American experiment continues to evolve.
This country wasn’t born perfect, but it has labored over generations to expand its freedoms and opportunities, doing its best to fulfill the nation’s promise.
Winston Churchill once said that democracy is the worst form of government — except for all the others.
He might have added that America is the most flawed of countries — except for all the others.
In fact, what the world most admires about America is its ability to reinvent itself. Rather than being locked into caste and class and rigidity, this country has always been willing to look at its shortcomings and find a way to become a better place for future generations.
This country fought its bloodiest war to end the shame of slavery. The conflict between white settlers and Native Americans is now the subject of thoughtful reflection. And the era before women’s suffrage is now seen as a relic of the past.
In every case, the American response to its flaws has been to strive for something better.
So celebrate America tomorrow and every day.
But be wary of jingoism; it stifles debate.
Recognize the country’s greatness and dedicate yourself to making it greater in the years to come. — J.R.[[In-content Ad]]