It’s easy to take the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy in America for granted. But not every country gives its citizens the chance to chase their dreams and shape their future the way we can here in the United States.

To celebrate that, we asked ten people a simple question: Why do you love America? Their heartfelt answers are a beautiful reminder of why this country, nearly 250 years after its founding, is still worth celebrating, cherishing, and defending.

Freedoms and privileges

“There is no better country in the history of the world for my children to reach for their dreams, no matter how high they may be. No other country cherishes and protects freedom, liberty, faith, and opportunity for all more than America! It is theirs to protect and pass on.”

– Todd G. is a father of four and grandfather of two. He lives outside Denver, Colorado, where he started a successful business from the ground up.

“America offers freedom to all people, allowing us to practice religious choices, education, and freedom of speech. For that, I love America!”

– Sarah M. grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, but now lives in Arapahoe County, Colorado, with her family. She is a mom to three, a grandmother to six, and is blessed with one great-grandson. 

“I was raised in the greatest country on earth. Here, we are afforded freedoms that allow us to use our talents and gifts to benefit ourselves, our families, and the betterment of the nation. I am able to raise my son and future children without fear. I hope to instill in them an appreciation for this great nation and the opportunity it gives them to offer their lives to God, family, and the community that surrounds and supports us.”

– Bella C. was a high school teacher and dance instructor after graduating from college. She is now a young stay-at-home mom who lives near Dallas, Texas, with her husband and toddler. 

“I love our personal freedoms, specifically those of religion and thought. I love the endless opportunity to make our lives whatever we want for ourselves and our families.”

– Shannon L. is a proud fifth generation Colorado native, mother, and grandmother. 

Opportunity for growth

“America offers an opportunity to succeed. This has been proven countless times. Hard work, desire, and determination are ingredients for success. Five generations of my family have taken advantage of all that America offers.“

– Rick G. is originally from Torrington, Connecticut, where his family settled after immigrating to the U.S. from Italy. 

“In the USA, if you grow up without money or in a hard situation, you still have the opportunity to change that for yourself and your family as an adult. You have the chance to make something of yourself here, no matter how you started out.”

– Jordan C. is from Portland, Oregon, but recently settled in Texas with his family to continue his professional career and be around more like-minded people.

Culture and diversity

“As a current law student, I am constantly reminded of how lucky I am to live in America. I am honored to learn around students from a wide range of backgrounds, something you don’t typically see in other countries. There is a feeling of love and respect for each individual in our class, as we appreciate the many aspects that make us who we are.”

– Erica S. is a California native and a young, aspiring lawyer currently attending law school in San Francisco

“I love the USA for the freedom and the immense beauty it affords me. As a daughter of immigrant parents, I saw firsthand the endless opportunities and rewards given to anyone regardless of gender, race, or religion if they work hard and are determined to succeed.”

– Danielle S. is the daughter of a Palestinian refugee and a New Zealand immigrant. Her parents came to America seeking freedom and the chance to give their future children the best lives possible. She now lives in San Diego with her husband and daughters.

National pride

“My love for America is rooted in opportunity and entrepreneurial frameworks that simply don’t really exist in almost every other developed country. America is a country built on taking risks and being rewarded by the best free market system in the world.”

– Peter H. was born and grew up in Ottawa, Canada, and then moved to the States as an adult. He is now very proud that he has lived in America longer than he did in Canada.

“Something I love about America is that we are unapologetically ourselves. Regardless of how the rest of the world views us, we do not give in to pressure from other nations. We dictate our own path.” 

– Tony G. is a recent college graduate and American history buff who began his professional career in Denver, Colorado. 

The pride that Americans have for their country is unmatched. It is inspiring that centuries after the United States earned its independence, the nation’s citizens still have a strong love and appreciation for its freedom and beauty.