Local GVSU's Hauenstein Center to Host Panel Discussion on American Patriotism

The Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies at Grand Valley State University (GVSU) is set to host a panel discussion on American patriotism. The event, taking place at 6 p.m. on April 18 at the DeVos Center, will include Yale political science professor Steven B. Smith, columnist Cal Thomas, and historian Elizabeth Cobbs.

The discussion will focus on the theme of empowered citizenship and its national and global implications. Megan Rydecki, the Hauenstein Center Director, highlighted the role of individual actions in shaping the country's patriotic spirit. She suggested that patriotism is linked to citizens' contributions to their surroundings.

The panel discussion follows a 2023 Gallup poll, which found that 67% of U.S. adults are extremely proud to be American. The poll also showed a political divide, with Democrats being less likely than Republicans to express extreme pride in being American.

Rydecki emphasized the importance of individual actions in preserving the nation. She noted that the country's strength relies on its 335 million citizens and their patriotic decisions.

The Hauenstein Center also provides further discussions on patriotism through its podcast, The Hauenstein Center Collection, available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

This article has been enhanced with AI assistance. Agree to access AI-generated content by clicking here, or opt for content with less AI influence here.