I'm a person who has always believed that you tell people the truth, and they'll make reasonable decisions. Truth is powerful.
John F. KerryRead
Our purpose now is to reclaim democracy itself. We are here to affirm that when Americans stand up and speak their minds and say America can do better, that is not a challenge to patriotism; it is the heart and soul of patriotism.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes that advocating for improvement in democracy is a fundamental expression of true patriotism.
John F. Kerry's quote highlights the importance of active participation in democracy as a core patriotic duty. He argues that expressing the desire for a better America should be viewed as an affirmation of one's love for the country, rather than a criticism of it. This perspective reframes patriotism to include the pursuit of improvement and accountability.
Themes
DemocracyPatriotismAdvocacyImprovementAmerica
In practice
Example use cases
During a campaign rally, this quote can inspire the audience to participate in the democratic process.
More from John F. Kerry
All quotes →Confronting climate change is, in the long run, one of the greatest challenges that we face, and you can see this duty or responsibility laid down in scriptures, clearly.
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Unlike Washington, which is stuck in ideological gridlock, Americans feel the impact of climate change in their own hometowns and they know something must be done.
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Here I am in the state of New Mexico. George Bush is still in the state of denial. New Mexico has five electoral votes. The state of denial has none. I like my chances.
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Democracy relies on free speech. Yes, say anything you want, but it relies even more on the speech being truthful. It is the truth, after all, that sets us free.
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War should be not a war of choice; it should be a war of necessity. And it should be a last resort.
John F. KerryRead
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