The American Creed
How do words, symbols, or rituals express the American creed?
American Creed is the term that is used to describe the defining element of America’s identity. This can be done through words, symbols, or even rituals. Each and every person has their own definition of the American Creed and still has a common theme or thread within each.
To start, the American flag is one of the oldest symbols. The 13 stripes and the 50 stars represent the 13 colonies and the 50 states within America. The color streaks of red, white, and blue represent valor, innocence, and justice. It also represents equality and freedom within the United States.
Another symbol is The Statue of Liberty. I mean who doesn’t love it. This represents the strong relationship between France and the United States. This is also known as a universal symbol because it can represent freedom, dreams, and hopes. The crown that is placed on top of Lady Liberty’s head represents the 7 oceans and continents.
Moving forward to rituals, becoming a citizen expresses the American Creed. Many want to become a citizen of the United States of America and when they do it’s a life-changing ceremony. Many opportunities open up and people are able to pursue their dreams and goals.
Another ritual, which happens on one of my favorite days of the year, is the fourth of July. The fourth of July is the day when we celebrate the United States and its independence. You can see lots of fireworks, American flags, and plenty of barbeques going on around the neighborhood. Everyone gets together to celebrate the United States gaining independence from Britain.
Lastly Memorial Day. The day where we celebrate, remember, and honor those who served our country. This day honors anyone who has passed away while serving our country. I personally celebrate this every year because I have had family fight for our country’s freedom and pass away while serving.
Words can be used to express the American creed. Such as liberty, freedom, and equality. Liberty is to act on one’s own will and reach their potential in any dream or goal. Two statues that help express this are the Liberty Bell and the Statue of Liberty.
Freedom includes the freedom of speech, religion, press, and more. This allows us to be able to do what we like within reason. The United States of America are one of the few countries which have so many forms of freedom available to its citizens.
Lastly equality. Equality has been a long-going issue when it comes to everything. This could be at work, school, or even at home. With our freedom of speech, the idea of equality has been spread around like wildfire in effort to take some control over the situation. With peaceful protests and gatherings, things are starting to change. Not saying it’s permanent, it’s a work in progress. Just the idea of equality being worked on and used in everyday aspects is what makes America great.