​"How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?"

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When people think of patriotism, they often picture flags in the front yard or uniforms. For me, it looks different. It looks like a table at a community event, covered in voter registration forms, and me explaining how to fill one out. It looks like showing up even when the noise, crowds, or bright lights make me want to stay home. I’m the son of a U.S. Naval Academy graduate, and a proud son of his; I grew up knowing that serving your country doesn’t always mean wearing a uniform; it means showing up for your community.

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My dad’s patriotism came through military service. Mine comes through civic participation. I show patriotism by helping others use their voices, especially people who, like me, are on the autism spectrum. I know what it’s like to feel unheard, to be underestimated, or to struggle to communicate in the way others expect. That’s why I volunteer to help register voters and talk about civic engagement at community tables for my Congresswoman’s office. I want every person to feel they belong in a democracy, too. Patriotism is first and foremost about upholding the Constitution and ensuring everyone has a voice. I am committed to ensuring that all Americans have the opportunity to engage in our constitutional government, such as registering people to vote.

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For the last four years, I’ve been involved in the YMCA Youth & Government program. Introducing mock legislation at the state and national levels is a lesson in how hard and hopeful democracy can be. I learned that patriotism isn’t about agreeing on everything; it’s about caring enough to participate despite challenges.

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And this year, I put that lesson into action. When I learned about the Blue Envelope Program, which helps police officers recognize when a driver is on the spectrum, I found value in the program and wanted consistency throughout the state. Drivers on the autism spectrum can keep their registration, insurance, and a short information card inside a blue envelope. When they’re pulled over, they hand it to the officer. The envelope lets the officer know the driver might have sensory sensitivities or communicate differently, and it includes tips to help make the interaction safe and calm for everyone. Right now, a few departments in Arizona use the program; however, it’s not consistent across the state. Some officers know about it, others don’t. Some drivers can access it, others can’t. So I wrote a bill to make the Blue Envelope Program a state law—so every officer in Arizona is aware of it, and every driver on the spectrum can count on understanding and consistency wherever they are. I’m working with a State Representative to introduce it next session.

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I didn’t just write the bill, I’m advancing it.

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I’ve met with community members, shared stories about why it matters, and spoken up in meetings.

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That’s how I show patriotism: by helping build a country that listens, learns, and leads with understanding, one small policy at a time.

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I believe the most patriotic thing we can do isn’t just to celebrate freedom, but to make sure everyone truly feels that through democracy, we can all be patriots. Sometimes patriotism is quiet. It’s a form you fill out, a conversation that builds understanding, or a piece of legislation that brings safety and dignity to someone who’s never had it. Ultimately, patriotism takes many different forms.

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My dad’s service showed me what courage looks like.
My own experiences taught me what inclusion looks like.

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Together, they’ve helped me understand that patriotism isn’t about flag-waving; it’s about the American people. That’s how I show my love for this country: by helping it see and hear everyone who calls it home.

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