Overall, 39% of U.S. adults say they are “extremely proud” to be American in the most recent poll.
Meanwhile, only 18% of those aged 18-34 said the same, compared to 40% of those aged 35-54 and 50% of those 55 and over.
18% is still too high. As Obama’s pastor said, God damn America! Americans have very little to be proud of at this point.
I just get stuck on the pride part of it. I didn’t make any of this. I had nothing to do with it. I’m moderately content to be here for the most part. I know I’m privileged compared to many but proud? Nah. It feels off to be proud of where I was born and/or exist. People that came over here and worked hard to get citizenship? Yeah, go ahead I’d be proud too that’s a huge life change and not an easy process. That took work and dedication. Otherwise nah. I’m not proud to be an American because being an American isn’t any kind of accomplishment for anyone that was born here.
I get what you mean but perhaps you’re looking at it with the wrong interpretation? You shouldn’t be yeehaw nationalist, blind to the issues proud. Or Freedom Fries proud to whittle it down.
It’s worth being proud of the fact we live somewhere that we can have an impact on. Federally? I’m to pessimistic to believe, but state and locally? Absolutely. Don’t like the state you live? You just get up and move. We have a lot of freedom and rights to enjoy and be proud of. It’s the reason so many flock to live here when there are arguably better places to try first. Especially when we lack some necessary social nets like healthcare.
I met a guy who runs a laundromat explain it like this. In his home country, you need licenses for this and that, certifications, certified employees and inspectors just to run a cleaners. Here? He can just open shop with minimal hassle, and his abilities make or break the business. He’s been here for 20 years and the only guy I want touching my suits.
I get why there might be regulations such as that, but it sounds ridiculous to me. As long as you’re not doing anything dangerous, best of luck and take your shot. I’m just glad there is some sliver of the dream still alive, where people like him can do what they want business wise.
It’s not perfect, but I don’t think there’s a reason to not be proud that we can, hopefully, keep pushing for a better America every year. As long as we don’t let it get nationalistic like in 2003.