patriotism Archives

2 - Analysis / Culture / Culture & Institutions / Dead Reckoning / Opinion / Politics / Politics / Voice

What the 250th Looks Like From Here

June 4, 2026June 4, 2026 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, cultural discussions on patriotism reveal a divide. While celebrations unfold nationwide, significant critique from mainstream media and cultural elites questions the legitimacy of national pride. This contrasts with data showing that many Americans, particularly in rural areas, maintain their love for country.

2 - Analysis / Dead Reckoning / Opinion / Voice

The Patriotism Standard

May 30, 2026May 30, 2026 - by Michael Phillips - 1 Comment

The New Yorker published an essay questioning patriotism’s cultural status, positing that expressions of national pride have become problematic due to their association with certain demographics. Critics argue this view selectively targets patriotic symbols from some groups while ignoring similar expressions from others, revealing a bias in cultural critique based on class and aesthetics.

American / Family Values / Free Speech / Freedom of the Press / Political Violence / Politics / Religious Freedom / Rights and Freedoms / Supreme Court

Faith, Family, Freedom, Forgiveness vs. “Extremists”: Why Democrats’ Rhetoric After Charlie Kirk’s Murder Feels Like Gasoline on the Fire

September 22, 2025September 22, 2025 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

While conservatives gathered to honor Charlie Kirk with themes of faith, family, freedom, and forgiveness, Democrats doubled down on labeling their opponents “extremists” and attacking the Supreme Court. In the very week that forgiveness triumphed over rage, their rhetoric poured gasoline on the fire—fueling division and empowering the radicals who act on words of hate.

Family Values / Marriage / Political Violence / Politics / Religion / Religious Freedom / Republicans / Rights and Freedoms / Spotlight / Voice

Faith, Family, and the Making of “Real Men”: What Echoed Through Charlie Kirk’s Memorial

September 22, 2025September 22, 2025 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

At Charlie Kirk’s memorial service in Arizona, faith and family were not side notes—they were the heartbeat. Speakers and loved ones portrayed Kirk as a husband, father, and leader who modeled servant-hearted masculinity, urging men to love, protect, and lead their families with courage rooted in faith. Erika Kirk’s words of forgiveness and her call for men to emulate Charlie’s example turned grief into a national mandate: to revive America by reviving the family.

The Flag, the Suspension, and the Fight for Patriotism in Maryland Schools

May 2, 2025 - by Michael Phillips - Leave a Comment

Seventeen-year-old Parker Jensen, a Marine Corps enlistee, was suspended from Towson High School for advocating the display of the U.S. flag in classrooms, violating Maryland law. His peaceful campaign faced backlash from the administration, reflecting a broader cultural trend where traditional patriotism is often punished in increasingly politicized educational environments.