Why I Still Believe in America

Scary is the word you hear being used left and right to describe the times we are living in. At first, I thought maybe it was just the left-leaning echo chamber I am always trying to break out of. But after doing a bit of digging, I realized I’m not alone. The New York Post, an outlet not typically in my media diet, reported that in a recent poll from NYT/Siena, 66% of voters feel President Trump’s term is “chaotic” while 59% used the word “scary.”

They’re not wrong. These times are scary. You’d have to be living under a rock or in deep denial to think otherwise. Everyone knows someone who’s under attack right now–whether it’s cuts to Medicaid, unjust deportations, or defunding Planned Parenthood. What gives me peace is a quote from Bill Clinton’s inauguration—one I still believe in just as much today as I did when I was standing in the crowd:

“There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America.”
– Bill Clinton, January 20, 1993

Given the state of our nation, the average American may no longer believe that quote. We’re led to believe the country is crumbling and democracy is slipping through our fingers—a rhetoric fueled by media siloes and sticking in like-minded social circles. I’m not going to sugarcoat it: the ideals of our nation are under attack. The Constitution feels more and more like a suggestion each day; the vulnerable are being hurt, and the rights of immigrants, women, and LGBTQ+ people are dwindling. It’s alarming and leaves many feeling helpless.

But when you look at America's history, turbulence is nothing new. From the fight for independence, to the Civil War, to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond, our most defining leaps forward have come from the moments of unrest. And right now, one of the deepest sources of that unrest is economic inequality. People feel left behind, and they’re right to demand change, but real change requires unity, not more division. We need a new kind of leadership. One that acknowledges the urgency of the moment while bringing us together, not farther apart.

I believe that despite everything, we’re still the greatest country in the world. Even as protestors are being detained, free speech reigns supreme. Even as universities face political pressure, our education system remains world-class. Even as critical grants are cut, innovation and philanthropy continue to thrive. And when it comes to our soft power, we produce the most iconic movies, music and theater in the world. And don’t get me started on food. Sure, France and Japan might have more Michelin stars, but I'll take America everyday of the week when it comes to where I want to eat. If you asked me to choose anywhere in the world that I wanted to live, I’d choose right where I am—without a second thought.

However, just like in those moments that turned the tide of history, we can’t keep our title as the greatest country by sitting on the sidelines. We all need to get in the game one way or another. If you listened to my last conversation with Governor Wes Moore, you know that this doesn’t mean dropping everything and becoming a full-time revolutionary. It simply means doing your part—whatever that looks like for you. If it’s supporting your local dog shelter, donating to your local food bank, running for office, or mentoring a kid in your neighborhood, no act is too small.

One of my favorite Cory Booker quotes is perfect for this moment: “Never let your inability to do everything undermine your determination to do something. Greatness lies in the doing, not the doubting.”

As we approach the 249th anniversary of our country, it’s important to recognize what’s at stake, and how we can collectively take action to turn things around. I, for one, hope the message for America’s 250th birthday is a much different one.

One specific request for this Independence Day: I encourage you to reach out to someone with a different perspective than you. Whether it's politics, religion, or something else–extend an olive branch. Use the principle of charity as your guiding light. Assume the best in them, listen to their concerns, and share yours. Our country has become more fractured than ever, and a little understanding goes a long way. That’s how we can get back on track.

How To Get Involved:

Happy Independence Day.
– Jamie’s List