I, like many people, have read of protests at sporting events against systemic racism perpetrated against people of color. Like all military men and women, I swore an oath to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.” I took this oath with all the seriousness it deserved.
I am deeply patriotic, and I understand that patriotism can be displayed in many ways. Getting involved to improve government, or to protest when government is the problem, is patriotic. This is important to acknowledge because — hold onto your hat — racism exists. This isn’t the “let’s go put on our hoods and burn a cross” racism; it’s more insidious. There are problems within our government that are causing this. And there is nothing remotely patriotic about it.
What I read and hear about racism in this country troubles me greatly. I cannot pretend to understand the anxiety a black person feels when a police car follows his or her car, the hopelessness of a black couple when they submit an application to their sixth potential lender for a home loan, or the fear of black parents who must have “the talk” with their teenage son or daughter. But I am deeply saddened that the country I love is a part of creating this environment.
The best definition of courage I’ve heard is doing the right thing when doing the wrong thing would be easier. I served my country but I was never as courageous as the men and women, and boys and girls, who exercise their patriotism in protest of the injustices they see every day. It is not just our right to protest, it is our obligation. So let’s be courageous and do the difficult.
I ask this: Do your best to try to see the world through others’ eyes. If there are people in your community who feel compelled to burn a flag, or to take a knee or lock arms in protest, support them for the courage and patriotism they exhibit. When our kids have great mentors in their coaches, teachers or parents who are encouraging and supportive of these principled stands, shake their hands and thank them for the lessons they are imparting, even if you don’t necessarily agree with them. They are, each and every one, heroes and great Americans.
Paul Arends, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, works in Everett, Wash.