If you asked me like 4-8 years ago, I felt kind of neutral about things. Now I don’t feel an ounce bit patriotic or proud enough to even state that I’m an American.

Now, when I see an American flag around, I see it as a symbol of fascism, anti-intelluctialism, neo-nazism, and late-stage capitalism amongst other things. If there’s an American flag flying on a car, I can totally see that person possessing at least one of those qualities.

I suppose it’s good to be self aware and not blindly feel patriotic and ignoring that your country needs improvement.

I don’t know what I’m expecting in the comments here but just thought I would get this off my chest.

  • Noel_Skum@sh.itjust.works
    8·
    2 months ago

    Do USian school children still talk to that bit of fabric every morning - or is that a myth? From an outsider’s perspective I always put the US just below, uh, post-Weimar republic Germany in the excessive flag club chart placings. Always seemed excessively jingoistic.

    Best of luck with your country…

    • WindyRebel@lemmy.world
      1·
      2 months ago

      Yes it still goes on. I live in a very liberal city with a ton of diversity bordering Chicago and our schools still do it here. However, they don’t care if you participate or not - that is your personal choice.

      I have been substitute teaching and I’ve noticed that not many kids recite it. They just listen to it being recited over the morning announcements.

      • Noel_Skum@sh.itjust.works
        2·
        2 months ago

        I like the way your school works where you can chant along if you want - I remember having to lip-sync the “Lord’s prayer” (daily bread speech) as a kid so as not to get a whooping from a zealot in the staff room. Crazy times.

        Best of luck to you, your kids and your city - you’re literally educating the generation that might have to dig your whole country out from the nightmare it appears to be building. Look after yourselves…

        • WindyRebel@lemmy.world
          1·
          2 months ago

          Thank you! I think it’s a nice compromise. Those that want to say it can and others can feel and be who they want. I grew up saying it, but these days I do think it’s weird to pledge allegiance to a flag or that we have to constantly tout how we’re the best country (we’re not). With age comes wisdom and experience.