I found a deeper kind of patriotism at Utah Girls State

FERRON — America is red, white, and blue. It’s hot dogs and fireworks on the Fourth of July and bald eagles soaring through the clouds. For many years, I have had a vague, shallow understanding of patriotism. I always put my hand on my heart for the national anthem, never truly knowing why. I indulged in hot dogs and fireworks on the Fourth of July, viewing it as a mindless holiday celebration.

However, this past summer I have found a new meaning in patriotism and the foundation on which America was built.

I was lucky enough to attend Utah Girls State, sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary, held at Weber State in Ogden. I spent a week away from home with people I didn’t know, ate food I wasn’t used to, and slept in a bed that wasn’t my own — and it was one of the most rewarding weeks of my life.

From the moment I arrived, I expected a difficult week. Our days were long, packed with meetings and activities that often lasted up to two consecutive hours. Two hours of dense presentations, low expectations, and a tender ache to go home to my family.

However, the general sessions truly changed my view of Utah Girls State and my purpose for being there. Many female speakers spoke about military experience, trials of life, and our capabilities as young women. Each speech resonated with me deeply. I hadn’t expected this from general sessions, and I developed a more sincere sense of respect.

These women were smart and authentic, and their words set the tone for the rest of my week. Each speaker was more motivational than the last, evoking deep-seated emotion and connecting with the entire audience. I felt incredibly inspired. I was encouraged to step outside of my comfort zone and run for mock government positions, voicing my opinion openly, with confidence and power. I engaged and built connections with girls who were strangers just days before.

However, it wasn’t just the speakers who made me feel empowered; it was the girls as well. Girls my age were writing big bills and debating serious issues in a mock legislature. Issues such as the rise of artificial intelligence and limited healthcare in rural areas — issues that exist not only within Utah, but in our entire nation. Alone, that seemed like a momentous task to undertake, but when united together, we were entirely capable. I felt like a part of a community and a true daughter of my nation.

Leaving Utah Girls State was bittersweet. Surrounded by many young women, I built lifelong friendships and gained meaningful morals like civic duty, personal responsibility, and community support. But the impact of the week wasn’t just in what I learned while I was there, but in how I brought it home. It transformed my views of community service into an active way to give back to people who have given so much to me. Whether volunteering to read with elementary kids or assisting with local blood drives, it showed me how patriotism can be lived through local action.

As I turn 18, I realize the power of my vote. While participating in mock governments and legislatures, I found that my vote does matter. Whether in big elections or small, my vote plays a vital role. It is a special honor that we get to vote, so we should take advantage of this privilege. Above all, I have a deeper respect for our veterans whose sacrifices have secured the freedoms we often take for granted.

My patriotism didn’t end when I left Utah Girls State; it lives on in my day-to-day life. It affects my personal values and my ties to my community. I find great merit in serving those around me and being conscious of what I can do for my community. It has changed me from a passive, unaware citizen to an active, caring one. By changing my perspective, Utah Girls State changed my life, and I could not be more grateful for all that I learned. ​ ​

While America will always be tied to traditions and classic symbols, to me, it has become something far more profound: daily opportunities, strength within our communities, and the unnoticed blessings of freedom.

My shift in perspective is present every time I place my hand over my heart for the flag. Putting my hand on my heart means pledging my loyalty to the United States and acknowledging my appreciation for everything it took to get here. It is easy for our gratitude to get lost within daily routines, but we should never lose the responsibility and privilege that come with calling ourselves American. Because of ALA Utah Girls State, I finally understand what it means to be American.

Note to readers • This contest was produced by The Salt Lake Tribune, Spy Hop and Amplify Utah. It was supported through a grant from the American Journalism Project.