When Patriotism Becomes Xenophobia

Some commentaries simply write themselves. This is one of them.

My fingers just started moving after reading Washington Post columnist’s Eugene Robinson’s piece today on patriotism. In this heated presidential race, Barack Obama’s scrutiny too often has turned to a microscopic interrogation unprecedented in any previous presidential campaign. And Eugene Robinson’s response to Obama’s brand of patriotism struck a nerve in me. In support of his July 4th commentary I shot back an immediate response that I am now sharing with you.

Read Mr. Robinson's commentary at www.washingtonpost.com.
Search for his July 4, 2008 commentary
"A Special Brand Of Patriotism."
My comments were also posted on the Washington Post’s website.

First it was, “Is he black enough?” Then it was “Is he too black? “ Now the xenophobes ask “Is he really patriotic?” I am sure that Obama will be hyper-vetted straight through his inauguration. I only wish some of his critics would examine their own ancestral past and explore their own family’s brand of patriotism. Many, I am certain, would be shocked, ashamed, and humbled.

Below are my comments.

Happy Independence Day To All

-Carole
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Dear Eugene:

Two thumbs up for your commentary in today's Washington Post on "A Special Brand of Patriotism."  I completely agree with your perspective, and have grown weary with this country's xenophobia masquerading as patriotism by mainstream America.

As a global diversity professional and radio talk show host, my African American roots go back 7 generations to the mid 1700s.  I could write books about my ancestors and their contribution to this country.  

Two bishops elected to the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Countless schoolteachers and ministers.

An ancestor who helped negotiate the agreement that saved Savannah from Sherman's wrath of fire during the Civil War.  

A grandfather who served in World War I.

A father who was a World War II Tuskegee Airmen who hitchhiked from Bel Air, Maryland to Baltimore each week to attend high school, not offered to blacks in his own segregated town.

A brother who is one of the most respected attorneys in my native Michigan.

A mother who educated with dignity and pride for decades in Detroit.

The list could go on and on.

And I am only speaking about my family's heritage.  There are millions of black families whose historical patriotism would shame some people back to the origins of their own indentured servitude or slave holding past.

I wish you continued success at the Post, on MSMBC, and with your other professional pursuits.  

Happy July 4th weekend to you and your patriotic family.

Warmly,
Carole Copeland Thomas