No matter your political views or party affiliation, you should be entirely proud to be an American. We are a country of innovators, thinkers, and leaders. We are a country of optimism and courage always seeking to find new ways to better our world, whether it be through government, technology, or medicine. America is home to the bright-minded and starry-eyed dreamers who change the world for the better. No other country in the history of mankind has seen the kind of exceptional talent, prowess, and determination like those of Americans. For all the negative times this country faces, Americans have always fought to build a more prosperous future -- and for that reason, I'm extremely proud to call myself an American.
In times of tragedy, we stand united like no other nation. The September 11th attacks blanketed New York City with monumental grief. On 9/11, every American was a New Yorker. The country came together to stand united against a common enemy and to provide strength and sympathy for families of victims. Recently, the shootings at a nightclub in Orlando showed America's sweeping solicitude once again. The country stood with those in the LGBTQ community and exhibited a fierce urgency to prevent more senseless killings. Americans display some of the greatest kindness and unity the world has ever seen, especially during times of tragedy.
Americans fight for justice and equality. The United States has had its fair share of tumultuous inequality, war, and injustices. However, America is a country that recognizes its past mistakes and intensely fights to prevent them from happening again. We have overcome immense battles and won, providing better opportunities for all people regardless of race, religion, or gender. Americans continue to raise awareness about the importance of accepting each other's differences. Americans understand that love is love and everyone deserves a fair shot at creating a beautiful life. Like any nation, America is not always peaceful, but there is no question that America has overcome some of the most turbulent times and seeks daily to correct injustices. We are a country of improvement. Some people may argue that America was never great because of its rocky past, but what makes America great is the fact that we go through harsh periods and come back stronger, more unified, and seek to find more justice and peace for our future generations.
The United States was founded on a simple principle: freedom. Freedom to participate in the religion of your choosing, to love who you wish to love, to say what is on your mind, to build a better life, to showcase your talents, to find happiness, and to follow your dreams. Americans are a people of passion and hope. The kind of hope Americans embody make the United States the greatest country in the world. When Americans hope, shortly after there will be action. When Americans dream, the entire world benefits.
For all that United States has been through and continues to go through, there is one thing that will always be certain: Americans lead the efforts in finding the good in what can be a dark world and always fighting for freedom and happiness for all people.
I'm proud to be an American, and I hope you are too.
