The True Meaning of Patriotism

Oakland County, MI (January 23, 2014) –   “In America, patriotism is not simply the act of loving one’s country.  In America, patriotism is the love of our founding First Principles as articulated in the Declaration of Independence and embedded in our Constitution.”   Oakland County Circuit Judge Michael Warren declared recently to enthralled audiences.  “American Patriotism is keeping the flame of liberty alive.  American Patriotism is ensuring that our People and public officials stay true to the Declaration of Independence and Constitution, and promoting America’s exceptionalism at home and defending it overseas.”

Addressing approximately 150 guests at the Romeo Area Tea Party in Shelby Township and 50 guests at the Southeast Michigan 912 Group in Utica at a second event, Judge Warren provided an overview of many definitions and historically rooted perspectives on the meaning of patriotism.  “Most definitions of patriotism simply refer to love of country.  Others contend that patriotism is a negative force.” Judge Warren remarked.  “But in America, true patriotism is a much deeper, positive force.  And it is the love of the deeper meaning of America that is so essential to preserving our freedoms and liberties.”  After reviewing the American Revolution and the evolution of patriotism in America - he issued a challenge to the audience to renew the spirit of America by re-embracing our founding First Principles.

Alarmed that large portions of our students and the general public are ill-informed, Judge Warren and his then 10-year-old daughter Leah created Patriot Week in 2009.  The week is anchored by the key dates of September 11 (the anniversary of the terrorist’s attacks) and September 17 (Constitution Day, the anniversary of when the United States Constitution was signed). Patriot Week is a grassroots effort to celebrate and honor America by commemorating its First Principles (the rule of law, equality, unalienable rights, the Social Compact, limited government and the right to alter or abolish an oppressive government), key historical figures, founding documents and symbols.  It is intended to fill the void left by the commercialization or disregard of our existing holidays. Detailed information about Patriot Week is available at www.patriotweek.org.  He is also the author of America’s Survival Guide, How to Stop America’s Impending Suicide by Reclaiming Our First Principles and History.