My grandmother has a sweater or T-shirt for any and every occasion. Whether it’s a national holiday or her granddaughters coming home from college for winter break, Nana will be walking out in appropriate attire, dressed in “A Charlie Brown Christmas” (1965) merch or the cardinal and gold of USC. 

As a history buff, Nana has much American-themed apparel previously sought out in gift stores of museums and exhibits. So, for the 2024 United States election cycle, she is more than ready to fit the theme. However, when I see her wearing the white sweater with the crocheted American flag in the center, the imagery gives me pause — something I’ve only ever experienced after the events of the 2016 presidential election. 

As a nation, we have a lot to be proud of — and arguably, a lot not to be. The direction we have taken as a nation as a consequence of the administration that took down Roe v. Wade, set back environmental regulation and now threatens to unravel democracy as we know it should be sounding a loud enough alarm to get every U.S. citizen’s attention. It is up to us now, as eligible voters, to take action toward restoring human rights and protecting our democracy. And for those not eligible to vote, making your voice heard in the cesspool of circling misinformation still holds power to sway the tide. 

I want to be proud of my nation’s flag; there may be a long way to go, but we now have the chance to choose the path that brings us closer to feeling it.

Ruby Crosthwait

Fall 2024 Features Editor