What Does it Mean to Be a Patriot?
I have some thoughts.
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Yesterday, President Trump signed an executive order asserting that America’s schools are to provide children with an education that instills “a patriotic admiration for our incredible Nation and the values for which we stand.”
The order says it is “discriminatory equity ideology” to teach children that the United States is “fundamentally racist, sexist, or otherwise discriminatory,” and that children should be receiving a patriotic education that is an:
“Accurate honest, unifying, inspiring, and ennobling characterization of America’s founding and foundational principles”
“A clear examination of how the United States has admirably grown closer to its noble principles throughout its history”
“The concept that commitment to America’s aspirations is beneficial and justified”
“The concept that celebration of America’s greatness and history is proper.”
I spent three years researching and writing a book about unsung Americans who changed the course of history. I believe deeply in the promise of America. When a reader sent me a card saying that I was a “true patriot,” I was honored.
And I think the take in this executive order is wrong.