Loving America means facing its history

NPR | By Deena Prichep

Published July 5, 2026 at 5:03 PM EDT

Writer Mitchell S. Jackson says loving America means telling the truth about its past, even when its uncomfortable. He reflects on the country's 250th birthday.

Related Content

Delivering packages through dangerous heat

Andrea Hsu, Don Gonyea

For workers who have to stay on the job outdoors in extreme heat, a few simple measures can decrease the risk of heat stroke. Awareness and education play a big role.
The Camp Mystic flood, one year later

Mallory Yu, Janaya Williams, Henry Larson, Don Gonyea, Dominic Anthony Walsh

After their daughter Chloe died at Camp Mystic, Matthew and Wendie Childress spent a year searching for answers. The Texas Newsroom's Dominic Anthony Walsh discusses the new podcast 'After the Flood'.
Detroit's Guardian Building still inspires awe

Henry Larson, Don Gonyea

NPR's Don Gonyea sends an audio postcard from Detroit's Guardian Building, an Art Deco landmark that reflects the city's resilience and beauty.
Thunderstorms, heat and wind will hamper efforts to contain Colorado wildfires

Chandelis Duster

Thunderstorms with high winds could make it more difficult to contain a massive wildfire that has scorched parts of southern Colorado.
National Guard troops fatally shoot a man in downtown Memphis

Joel Rose

Memphis police say National Guard troops fired their weapons in the early morning hours of July 5, killing a man who was armed with a handgun. State investigators will handle the case.

You make NHPR possible.

NHPR is nonprofit and independent. We rely on readers like you to support the local, national, and international coverage on this website. Your support makes this news available to everyone.

Give today. A monthly donation of $5 makes a real difference.