From Poles to Possibilities: A Patriotic Campus

What is more of an eyesore than an empty flagpole?  

Every day I walk past the lone flagpole in front of the Gold Star Memorial Building to go to class.  

As I walk past that flagpole, it reminds me of when I became an Eagle Scout and the number of flag ceremonies I took part in throughout my years in Scouting.  

The bare flagpole makes me think of a missed opportunity from the University.  

If we are a university that tries to provide a diverse and inclusive community, let us not forget the American flag.  

The American flag is a symbol that stands for the diversity of all fifty states of this great nation. The flag itself represents a set of ideals that transcend party lines and political movements.  

The American flag represents true liberty and justice for all.  

Every time we raise the flag it shows that we believe in the diversity of everyone here in America.  

On top of that, we are showing what it means to be patriotic.  

According to a 2022 Gallup poll, only 38% of people call themselves very patriotic, a record low, which I believe is something that should be addressed.  

With this is in mind, take some time to read these wise words from President Reagan, “Let us remember with devotion that the flag we love, and honor is the flag of freedom that flew in victory at Yorktown, the flag the United States Marines raised on Mount Suribachi, the flag Francis Scott Key saw by the dawn’s early light.​ Long may it wave.” – Ronald Reagan.  

While an empty flagpole may seem insignificant to some, it sends a subtle message that is part of a trend across the United States.  

As a campus community, let us fill this empty void with ideals that bind us together as a college.  

These ideals transcend politics, gender, race, and religion.  

Folks, I wrap up this column, hoping the once-barren flagpole will soon be home to the symbol of unity and patriotism that will stand the test of time.