UFC Freedom 250 Event Sparks Controversy
The recent UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House’s South Lawn, which featured a temporary stadium accommodating 5,000 people and an additional 85,000 tickets for a giant screen viewing on the Ellipse, has stirred up quite a bit of controversy. Notably, the event also coincided with President Trump’s birthday.
Regardless of your feelings about this Sunday’s event, it’s important to acknowledge that June 14 is also flag day, a day with its own significance.
For those not fond of President Trump, it’s worth mentioning that Flag Day has been around for many years, long before his time, and, ideally, it will continue for future generations as well.
There’s a long history behind Flag Day. If it weren’t for the timing with Trump’s birthday, it might have gone largely unnoticed, and that wouldn’t be fair. It’s not just about celebrating flags. It’s a moment to recognize that Americans, no matter their political leanings, are brought together by the foundational principles found in the Declaration of Independence, symbolized by Old Glory.
On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress approved a resolution defining a unified national flag. The 13-star flag, often attributed to Betsy Ross, became a symbol of pride and unity, representing what many considered the freest nation in history.
Then came the Civil War, during which the flag was lowered at Fort Sumter—a moment that fueled a strong tide of patriotism towards Old Glory.
Jonathan Flint Morris, a unionist banker, and Charles Dudley Warner, editor of the Hartford Evening Press, highlighted the importance of respecting the flag. In June 1861, Warner proposed the establishment of a holiday to honor it.
In his words, “This flag is a symbol of our most cherished nationality,” he expressed a sentiment that resonated with many. He emphasized that attacking the flag would ignite a passionate defense from the people.
Flag Day celebrations began in Connecticut thanks to Warner’s initiative. Over time, the observance spread to schools in Wisconsin in 1885, then to schools in New York in 1889, and made its way to public buildings in Philadelphia and across New York state by 1894. Subsequently, an organization was created to further promote this movement.
Democratic President Woodrow Wilson made the first formal declaration about Flag Day. He called for a patriotic commitment that would inspire a thoughtful love for America, emphasizing liberty and justice for all.
Further, Wilson urged Americans to reaffirm their dedication to the principles of independence and rights. This viewpoint, stemming from the belief that individuals shouldn’t be swayed from their ideals, led to the formal designation of June 14 as National Flag Day by President Harry S. Truman in 1949.
Flag Day embodies vital American values. It began as a Republican-driven initiative that transcended party lines and received national recognition under Democratic leadership. Quite simply, its aim is to reconnect us with the principles laid out in the Declaration of Independence, such as equality, limited government, and the fundamental right to resist oppression.
It’s important to note that while the country didn’t fully embody these principles in 1776, nor do we perfectly uphold them today, the belief in these ideals has motivated countless patriots, bringing us closer to living up to that promise. Movements like abolition, women’s suffrage, and civil rights have sought to advance these principles, echoing the ideals our flag represents.
As for those who might resist associating Flag Day with Trump, it’s crucial to remember that this day has significance that goes beyond any single individual. It invites all Americans to unite around the values that made this nation possible.
We ought to respond to that invitation.
