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The results of the 2024 United States Presidential Election were undoubtedly disappointing for many. While millions and millions of Americans celebrated the news of the 45th President Donald Trump winning the candidacy, others mourned and were overwhelmed with a loss of hope.
As the country anticipates the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, such feelings of grief may heighten. While it is essential to recognize and come to terms with these very strong and real emotions, Americans will soon be forced to decide between continuing to bask in their hopelessness or replacing their despair with the eagerness to advance positive change. Those who truly love America and believe in its capacity for unity, liberty, and justice will choose the latter.
It may seem impossible to love and have a deep appreciation for the United States while disagreeing with the incoming administration's values and/or policies. This is a common misconception that leads to Americans believing that they must hate the country to separate themselves from prevalent issues such as inequality, climate change, and gun violence.
American writer James Baldwin experienced great racism throughout his life. In his work, Baldwin spoke out against the extreme racism and homophobia in the country during the mid-1900s. While he recognized the country’s massive flaws, he was not afraid to celebrate the country. He once said, “I love America more than any other country in the world and, exactly for this reason, I insist on the right to criticize her perpetually.”
Baldwin demonstrates that criticizing something is loving it. In other words, pointing out problems in the United States, whether they occur always or in a given administration, is the very meaning of love. On the other hand, one who hates the country would never be vocal about its issues.
Patriotism among Generation Z is shockingly low. Only 18% of young Americans are “extremely proud” to call themselves American. By comparison, 85% of young Americans were “extremely” or “very” proud to be American only a decade ago. Simultaneously, Gen Z is often considered to have a unique drive to advance positive change. About 32% of Gen Z are regularly involved in activism or social justice work. When compared to only 24% of millennials having frequent involvement in such efforts, Gen Z has time and time again proven their determination to make their communities a better place for all.
How can the most civically engaged generation be the least patriotic? Individuals’ shifted and flawed understanding of patriotism may be to blame. Patriotism is not blind loyalty to a nation. Gen Z has fallen victim to believe this is the case. Rather, patriotism is loving one’s country despite tumultuous and difficult times. Devotion to a country can be unwavering even if the nation's state is not ideal in your view.
This time in our country is an essential test for all. Do we lean harder into our love and appreciation for America or pursue our feelings of hopelessness? Transforming anger and frustration into advocacy and hope will be key to addressing critical issues and ensuring that America moves forward.
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