LibraryScenariosWhen patriotic rituals feel hollow
Scenario

When patriotic rituals feel hollow

I love singing the national anthem but the line about the 'land of the free' sticks in my throat when I think about mass incarceration and I don't know if I'm being performative or authentic.

Juana
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

He's questioning whether participating in national traditions makes him complicit in contradictions or helps him work toward ideals.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with National identity and patriotism examined?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.