In light of Vice President Vance’s recent comments regarding citizenship, I find it imperative to reflect on what true citizenship means to me—not a citizenship defined by heritage but one grounded in enduring values and principles. My lineage traces back to my great-grandfather and grandfather, both of whom were farmers in New Hampshire, embodying the very spirit that America was founded upon. Their steadfast belief in the principles of equality, liberty, and justice not only enabled them to carve out a life in this nation but also laid a foundational framework for the values I hold dear today.
The values I inherited from my forefathers resonate deeply within me. They cultivated a sense of duty and dedication that transcends mere lineage. Growing up, my parents reinforced these lessons, instilling in me the importance of God, family, community, and country. These teachings guided my life choices and led to a 36-year military career, where I proudly served not just as a soldier but as a defender of the ideals that make America great. Now, even at 63 years of age, I continue to serve as a sergeant in a police department in New Hampshire, upholding the principles that my ancestors cherished and fought for.
Vance’s comments suggest a troubling narrative, one that seems to prioritize heritage over the core values imbued in us through our experiences and upbringing. The notion that citizenship could be defined by bloodlines risks creating a hierarchy of belonging, sidelining the contributions of those who may not have deep roots in this soil but share an unwavering commitment to the American ideals of democracy and freedom. It dismisses the fact that many Americans, like me, embody the spirit of citizenship through action, service, and dedication to community, regardless of our ancestral backgrounds.
My identity as a citizen stems not from an elite lineage but from a commitment to principles that promote the common good. The landscape of American citizenship is best enriched by the contributions of diverse individuals who embrace these values, irrespective of where they originated. My forefathers may have come from modest beginnings, but their aspirations were tethered to the broader narrative of America—one where hard work, resilience, and a belief in equality create opportunities for all.
In defending our values and principles, we must remain vigilant against narratives that seek to redefine citizenship in exclusionary terms. These principles do not belong to a select few but are the birthright of every individual who embraces them. My citizenship is forged by the teachings of those who came before me, and their legacies are alive in the way I live my life today.
In conclusion, as we grapple with the implications of Vance’s remarks, let us remember that the essence of American citizenship transcends heritage and elitism. It is rooted in a shared commitment to the ideals that define us as a nation—a commitment that my forefathers embodied and that I strive to uphold each day. Our shared values are what unite us, and they provide the foundation for an inclusive society that honors the sacrifices of all who have defended the freedoms we cherish.
Donald C. Bolduc