Most Americans are unaware that much of our patriotic culture--including many of the leading icons and symbols of American identity--was created by artists and writers of decidedly left-wing and even socialist sympathies. A look at the songs sung at post-9/11 patriotic tribute events and that appear on the various patriotic compilation albums, or the clips incorporated into film shorts celebrating the "American spirit," reveals that the preponderance of these originated in the forgotten tradition of left-wing patriotism.
As I announced earlier this week, , I want to do something special for the 4th of July this weekend, and this is where it starts, I'm inviting everyone in the Open Left community to join me in taking back patriotism from the know-nothing rightwing jingoists, by sharing what America means to you, whether from your own direct experience, or from the lives or writings of others who have inspired you.
As I said in that earlier diary, our country has always had its flaws--and below the fold, in my personal sharing to kick things off, I'll have more to say about that. Here, I just want to invite join with me, posting your stories or thoughts about what being an American means to you, what it should mean to all of us, or anything else you wish to write on a truly patriotic theme.
It's okay to respond to one another, of course. But mostly, I hope that people will use the comments to speak to us all. Sometime tomorrow, after people have had sufficient time to contribute, and to rate each others contritubions, I will repost the most recommended comments--plus, perhaps, my own personal favorites--either as separate front page entries, or in thematic groupings if that seems more appropriate, to spur further discussion of what true patriotism means to all of us.
So, start your patriotic juices flowing, folk. This is a Fourth for all of us to hold forth.
