Patriotism, like mateship, is about solidarity. It’s about what we owe each other as citizens.
Patriotism is the knowledge that we’re not alone in this life; that our neighbours are there to share our struggles; that we have 25 million people in our corner when we need it.
To love your country is not to assume it’s better than others. Patriots don’t need to feel superior to feel proud.
To love your country is not to assume that it’s perfect. Patriotism is not above self-reflection and self-improvement.
You can be proud of your citizenship and dedicated to progress. You can cherish this nation and want to make it better.
You can be a progressive and love your country: I certainly do.
