Instagram/@jamesmaslow
On Memorial Day, James Maslow seized the opportunity to voice a heartfelt message of thanks for the freedom that Americans enjoy as a result of countless sacrifices by service personnel. The actor and singer observed in a video and Instagram post-they had just returned from a series of shows and travels through various countries in Europe and the Middle East-that living in the imperfectly beautiful country remains a privilege.
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“I’m grateful and I’m proud to be an American,” Maslow wrote. “Thank you to all the men and women who gave their lives for this privilege. And to all the men and women who continue to keep us safe, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your service does not go unnoticed.” The video shows Maslow interrupting his workout to emphasize the need to remember the true meaning behind this holiday.
Almost all his fans immediately took to the comments to support the post, many echoing the sentiments expressed. One commented: “Loving all your travel content and everything you’ve done on your holiday. Thanks for sharing. Also, I am such a proud American that this message really resonated with me.” Another one added, “Glad you made it home safely,” referring to his recent travels.
On the other hand, the backlash was met with retorts; one in particular went on an angry tirade about American freedom, accusing Maslow of ignoring injustices past and present. “Do you mean freedom for Black people who are still discriminated against? What the fuck are you proud of?” The backlash sparked a brief interchange, where this same person stated their frustration was at the systemic level and not directed at Maslow personally.
Meanwhile, mixed reactions kept coming as supporting fans continued showering love for Maslow. “Proud of you, James, love you,” an admirer wrote, while another said, “We are so proud of you for what you do!” Others took the opportunity to ask for a few favors, including one follower who asked for a birthday shoutout during the next tour stop.
He traveled to Turkey, Israel, Greece, and Italy, passion at its zenith for capturing scenic views and cultural glimpses. It was definitely about his return being booked almost just in time for Memorial Day, somewhat cementing his appreciation of the US, given he was able to look around to admire the beauty of other countries while renewing his pride in his own.
The incident reminded followers, dividing opinions about patriotism: some stood forth to defend American values assertively, while others went from one critique to the next. Still, Maslow went on remembering and thanking those soldiers, deliberately steering clear of any politics.
While the comment section was bustling with ads and critiques, one thing stood out: Maslow’s words struck a chord-one with a scattered pride, another with a scattered political debate. Maslow’s Memorial Day tribute was a reminder that national identity derives from mixed-valence emotions. For most of his supporters, the takeaway was that a well-known person using his platform to honor serving American soldiers can never be a bad thing.
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So all the strong opinions shared online aside, Maslow’s sincerity in recognizing the sacrifices was something to be felt. Who can’t relate to a moment of appreciation for home after so long away?
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