July 4th Patriotism

Spooked By Fireworks, Pets Fill Shelters

oregonlive.com | Doug Beghtel/the Oregonian | Posted 08.06.2009 | Green


Independence Day kicks off a busy period at the shelter as fireworks cause pets to bolt from yards or familiar surroundings....

This Fourth of July, the Quest to Save Democracy Continues

John Wellington Ennis | Posted 08.03.2009 | Media


John Wellington Ennis

Just because the black guy won in November doesn't mean election fraud, voter suppression, and systematic disenfranchisement is gone.

Pursuing Happiness: Surprising Facts About the Declaration

Kenneth C. Davis | Posted 07.30.2009 | Living


Kenneth C. Davis

No, Taco Bell did not buy the rights to the Liberty Bell -- that was a very successful April Fools Day joke. (Yes, they got me.)

What Would Abbie Hoffman Have Thought Of The Flag Lapel Pin Debate?

Chris Weigant | Posted 07.12.2008 | Politics


Chris Weigant

Flag lapel pins are all the rage these days, but the battle over wearing the flag is older than you may have thought.

It's a Family Day

Cheryl Saban | Posted 07.12.2008 | Living


Cheryl Saban

Our July 4th celebrations always include a variety of comfort foods, music, and some splashing in the ocean or in a pool somewhere, and a place to watch fireworks. This year, things are different.

Patriotism and Michelle Obama: A 4th of July Reflection

Anne-Marie Slaughter | Posted 07.11.2008 | Politics


Anne-Marie Slaughter

Patriotism demands the ability to feel shame as much as to feel pride. We should be proud of our country when we have done something to be proud of, but be able to recognize when we have fallen short.

A Modest Proposal for the 4th: Take Back Old Glory

Paul Slansky | Posted 07.11.2008 | Politics


Paul Slansky

Of all the stupid things done by the anti-war crowd, the most gratuitously moronic was allowing the sanctimonious hypocrites of the right to co-opt the nation's most basic icon, its flag.

A Just Democracy

Katrina vanden Heuvel | Posted 07.11.2008 | Politics


Katrina vanden Heuvel

I experienced a surge of hope after the most nationally inclusive race for president in US history. It was that hope that moved me to write a manifesto about how to invigorate our democracy.

What is Patriotism?

Byron Williams | Posted 07.11.2008 | Politics


Byron Williams

Patriotism has been reduced to wearing flag lapel pins and adorning bumper stickers that read: "I Support the Troops." Where is the courage that exemplifies the spirit of 1776?