What is Patriotism? with Dr. Matthew Whitaker

Patriotism has been defined as loyalty to or defense of one’s country. What do political leaders and social activists mean when they use the term “patriot”? What is the difference between patriotism and nationalism? Throughout history people have demonstrated patriotism through military service, government service, protests, marches, sit-ins and more. How is patriotism expressed now? Recently we have seen peaceful marches and violent clashes described simultaneously as “acts of terrorism” and “patriotic.” Join us for an in-depth conversation about the history of patriotism in the U.S. and what it means today.

This program is cohosted by Friends of the Florence Community Library. This is an in-person event. Please be advised that FRANK Talks are private and may not be recorded or broadcast in any form. You understand these conditions for participation, and agree to hold harmless Arizona Humanities and the Arizona State Library.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER:

Matthew Whitaker is a decorated educator, historian, author, social justice advocate, motivational speaker, and founder of the ASU Center for the Study of Race and Democracy, where he taught for 16 years. Whitaker’s expertise lies in U.S. history, African American history, race relations, social movements, cultural competency, equity and inclusion, teaching excellence, and community partnerships.  Whitaker has received numerous awards including the 2016 DLA Diversity and Inclusion Award, ASU’s 2015 Pioneer Award for work on African American life and culture, and 2014 DLA Inclusive Workplace Award. Whitaker has spoken throughout the U.S. and abroad, and has been featured on CNN, NPR, PBS, WVON, and KEMET. His books include Hurricane Katrina: America’s Unnatural Disaster, Race Work: The Rise of Civil Rights in the Urban West, and his forthcoming memoir, The Undisputed Truth: A Revolutionary Journey to Black Manhood.