A patriot is defined as “a person who vigorously supports, loves, and defends their country and its interests. It implies dedication to one’s nation, often emphasizing loyalty, national pride, and a willingness to defend the country’s values or independence.”
Nowhere in that definition, culled from any dictionary or internet, does it say a patriot is loyal to a political personality, party, or ideology. A “real” patriot cares about everybody’s wellbeing in the nation and sees justice, equality, peace, harmony, and other American “values” as something we all deserve as also written in the Constitution.
Those are just words. If you want to actually see what “real patriotism” looks like, look no farther than the No Kings protests on any given Saturday at 1250 Baltimore Pike (the intersection of Baltimore Pike and Route 320). From 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., for the last year, residents have loudly, boldly, and proudly protested against the notion that Donald Trump sees and carries himself like a king, above the law, instead of an elected servant of all the people.
The peaceful demonstrations, held rain or shine since March 8, 2025, call attention to the principle that no leader is above the law, and advocate for democratic accountability. Participants are encouraged to bring handmade signs and join the growing community of residents engaging in non-violent, civic action…