by AFT President Sandra Feldman
November, 2001

Can patriotic pride
improve our public debate
on national issues?

September 11th represents a turning point in America’s history, and our schoolchildren will study the causes and consequences for years to come. As we emerge from the shadow of that horrific day, it is worth noting that in America, even out of those events with the most tragic consequences, it is possible to build and to grow. Out of the Civil War, for example, came the abolition of slavery and the fight for racial equality.

The indescribably destructive acts of terror changed us in ways still to be understood, but they also galvanized us, allowing us to see a side of America too often overshadowed by routine—the warmth, compassion, strength, heroism, and patriotism that make our nation great. With a renewed appreciation for our country, we can create a new and healthy discourse on a variety of issues affecting the public good.

AFT members stand with other Americans behind our President as he leads the campaign to defeat terrorism and bring those who attacked our country to justice. Yet the American commitment to free speech and freedom of religion, to the open exchange of ideas and to respect for differences among us has emerged as a North Star giving guidance amidst the chaos and tragedy. The vast majority of Americans have joined in condemning bias and violence against people perceived to be from Middle Eastern countries.

We also understand that at the heart of what the terrorists sought to destroy is our democratic tradition and our respect for diversity. These values are on display every day in institutions like our public schools. They stand in stark contrast to the way of life mandated by Taliban leaders, who ban education for women and girls and allow only one form of worship."We are all New Yorkers"

It is especially heartwarming to see the expressions of public faith and trust in our governmental institutions. Americans are more appreciative of police officers, firefighters, health care workers, schoolteachers, postal workers, and others who serve the public. Our citizens know that we are many communities united as a nation. When one of us is attacked, it is as if all of us have been hit, and each of us suffers. As many have been saying, paraphrasing the famous words of John Kennedy at the Berlin Wall, "We are all New Yorkers." And Americans understand that government is best equipped, and best able, to respond appropriately and comprehensively to serious threats and crises.

Does the renewed trust mean that debate will end? Does the new unity mean that political differences will cease to exist? Of course not.

Indeed, we already see arguments—in academia and elsewhere—over the role government should play. We see a return to policy differences as Congress comes back to the nation’s business. That is as it should be. Because we protect dissent and encourage dialogue, because we allow corrections through the democratic process, and because we respect one another, we continue to show the world that tolerance and democracy breed success. All of the flags that have covered this nation with a tapestry of red, white and blue are symbols of the principles that allow us to disagree and dissent—they’re not a substitute for them. Gaining perspective

Our schools, perhaps more than any other public institution, bring together children and therefore families of every race, ethnicity, and religion. Muslim girls in headscarves go to class with friends wearing elaborate, colorful braids. Parents help schools celebrate holidays of different cultures with home-cooked food representing their varied cultures, from hummus to jerk chicken to knishes to bologna sandwiches on white bread.

But none of that substitutes for learning about the great history of our nation and the freedoms that generations of Americans have fought to protect. It is important for schools to teach about democracy, about the values that include respect for human rights and individual differences and, at the same time, provide our children an understanding of what brings us together, and how to make wise choices and to distinguish right from wrong.

Perhaps with the perspective that comes from the tragedy of the attacks, we can learn to disagree in a more civil manner. We can choose our battles more wisely and focus on making meaningful improvements rather than squandering opportunities. For instance, we can invest in quality healthcare, and we can support our public schools, and work constructively to improve them rather than spending time tearing them down.

At this turning point in our nation’s history, our response needs to be representative of the great society we are. We need to find strength in our diversity and reject cynicism and bigotry in order to ensure our children’s future.