A few weeks ago, as I listened to Taylor Swift perform the National Anthem at the Super Bowl, a wave of emotions washed over me. It wasn’t just my admiration for her talent (and believe me, I adore her), but the stirring of pride I feel when I hear our national anthem. Growing up, I was taught to hold deep respect for the flag, our nation, and those who serve in the military. My grandfathers, my father, and two of my brothers-in-law are veterans, and our family stands tall, hand over heart, whenever we hear the anthem or see the stars and stripes.
I also have immense respect for our law enforcement officers. I teach my children to seek help from the police when they’re frightened or in need. Their bravery and dedication to keeping us safe is something I wholeheartedly appreciate. While I don’t personally own a gun, I know many friends and family who hunt and keep firearms for protection—safely stored and out of reach from children. I support their rights to do so.
However, this may come as a surprise: I fully back Colin Kaepernick and the movement that emerged from his act of kneeling. I see the cracks in our society and recognize that there are vastly different experiences in America. As a privileged white woman, I acknowledge that my life is not the same as many others.
My love for this nation runs deep, and it’s precisely because of that love that I want to see it improve. When my children are unwell, I want to heal them; it’s the same feeling I have for our country. If peaceful protests, like Kaepernick’s, can spark dialogue and lead to healing, then I’m all in.
I also firmly believe we need gun control reform. I don’t want to take away my friend’s hunting rifle, but I do want firearms to be securely stored, and I believe all users should be trained and licensed. The accessibility of weapons like the AR-15, which has been used in tragic mass shootings—often targeting children—is unacceptable. I stand beside my fellow Americans advocating for change to protect our kids.
As a Christian, my faith is central to my life. I teach my children to follow the teachings of Jesus, who I believe calls us to love all people. That includes members of the LGBTQ community, who deserve the same rights as anyone else—the right to love, marry, and live free from discrimination. I have family members who identify as gay and transgender; we believe that God loves them just as much as anyone else. Our faith teaches us that kindness and grace are what truly define us.
You might want to quote me from the Bible, and I’m familiar with its teachings. It may say that marriage is between a man and a woman, but in our home, we strive to emulate Jesus, who extended love to everyone, including those marginalized by society. I cannot raise my children in an environment that judges others based on who they love.
I believe Jesus would be heartbroken over the tragic deaths of Philando Castile and Tamir Rice, who faced violence in moments where many white children would be safe. It’s my faith and love for this nation that compel me to stand with those who face discrimination and fight for their basic rights. It’s my belief in a better future that fuels my passion for gun reform legislation. I believe in uniting with Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, and those without religion to create a safer, kinder nation.
I refuse to be confined to a single narrative. I am a proud American Christian who enjoys a good craft beer and isn’t afraid to speak my mind. I might not make it to church every Sunday, but I believe deeply in loving our neighbors and helping those in need. I recognize my privilege and aim to use it to support others. Every child, regardless of background, deserves a fair shot in this world, whether they are LGBTQ, immigrants, or simply different from one another. We have moved across five states, and every time we look for a new church, we search for one that welcomes everyone with open arms.
So when I stand for the flag or bow my head in prayer, don’t mistake me for one of those judgmental figures who hide behind the Bible or patriotism to spread hate. That’s not my version of Christianity, nor is it what I believe being American means. If you want to call me a liberal snowflake, that’s okay—living in Wisconsin, I absolutely love the snow.
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In summary, I embrace my identity as a proud Christian and American, striving for a kinder, more inclusive society. I believe in the importance of standing up for those who face injustice and advocating for necessary reforms, all while fostering love and understanding among diverse communities.
Keyphrase: Proud Christian and American identity
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