By John Cylc

August 10, 2024

To genuinely be “American” and embrace the ideals for which the United States stands, one must accept and uphold all aspects of those principles. Our country was founded as an alternative to tyranny, and the founders laid out a foundation to ensure “the people” determined their own course. Over the last 25 years or so, we have seen a concerted effort to undermine our nation’s principles. Too many Americans have been influenced by pop culture, the media and politicians who have been unabashedly supportive of leftist (read “socialist” or “communist”) tactics. These methods stand in direct opposition to the goals contained in our founding documents.

Central to these ideals are the freedoms enshrined in our Constitution, particularly freedom of speech. The phenomenon commonly referred to as “cancel culture” fundamentally contradicts this freedom, as it seeks to silence diverse voices and opinions. Furthermore, the assertion that “words are violence” undermines the very foundation of free expression, stifling open dialogue and debate.

In addition to the protection of free speech, it is essential to acknowledge the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution. This amendment unequivocally states, “the right of the people to keep and bear Arms shall not be infringed.” The language is clear and direct, emphasizing that this right belongs to the people and is not subject to vague interpretation. Supporting the Second Amendment is crucial in recognizing the importance of individual rights and personal responsibility in safeguarding oneself and one’s community.

It is equally important to clarify the nature of the United States as a Constitutional Republic, rather than a pure democracy. In a Constitutional Republic, we operate under a system of laws that protect the rights of individuals and minority groups from the tyranny of the majority. This framework necessitates respect for the rule of law, which includes the enforcement of immigration laws. The United States has a legal process for immigration, and it is imperative that we uphold these laws. The nation has a responsibility to secure its borders and ensure that immigration occurs through lawful means.

Furthermore, the integrity of our electoral process is a cornerstone of our democratic system. To maintain trust in our government, we must implement robust measures to safeguard elections. This includes regular audits, the purging of outdated voter rolls, and the establishment of voter identification requirements. These actions should not be viewed as controversial but rather as necessary steps to ensure that the “will of the people” is accurately represented. Supporting these measures reflects one’s commitment to the principles of accountability and transparency in governance.

To hold any other view is to misunderstand the essence of America as it was conceived. Our nation’s founding documents were designed to protect the rights and freedoms of all citizens while ensuring that laws are followed and respected. As such, it is vital for individuals to examine their understanding of these foundational principles. If one finds themselves in opposition to the core tenets of American governance, it may be worth reevaluating one’s beliefs and considering whether they align with the values that have shaped this country.

For those who may feel disenfranchised or at odds with the prevailing understanding of American values, it is worth noting that there are plenty of countries around the world with different political and social systems. Exploring these alternatives might provide a more suitable environment for those who seek to live in accordance with their beliefs. Suppressed nations, particularly those south of the United States border, have plenty of vacancies as their populations swell north into our country…illegally in most cases.

A genuine love for America requires an unwavering commitment to the principles that define it. This includes embracing freedom of speech, supporting the Second Amendment, respecting the rule of law in our immigration system, and ensuring the integrity of our electoral processes. Only through a robust understanding and acceptance of these tenets can we truly honor the legacy of our nation and contribute to its future. As we navigate the complexities of contemporary society, let us strive to uphold the values that have made America a beacon of hope and opportunity for countless individuals around the world.