When I was around seven years old, I went with my family to sightsee the Statue of Liberty in New York. As soon as the boat docked, I leaped off with extreme exuberance. I had read and seen pictures of the glorious statue, but to see it in person was a different experience. I stood at the bottom of the 305-foot masterpiece of sculpture and looked upon the luminescent golden torch. My father leaned down and told me the story of how he had immigrated from the impoverished state of South Korea to America. He said that thousands of immigrants across the world see this statue as a symbol of liberty.
As a result of visiting that national treasure, I experienced a growing sense of pride for my nation. To my parents, America was seen as their escape from poverty. America was and still is the land of freedom and opportunity not just for its citizens, but for the whole world. However, I feel that the patriotism that was once felt by the vast majority has slowly started to diminish. Especially since the 2016 election, partisanship in Congress has greatly increased.
Therefore, I created a platform almost nine months ago. For alliteration and a Korean inside joke, I named it Outspoken Oppa. I, along with five other editors, write our own opinions on politics, philosophy, and current events. Within a time of political disarray, having a voice is crucial. Utilizing that voice brings us one step closer to a better world. We have the power to stand up against corruption and greed. We have the power to protest against an unjust government. We have the power to construct a life that is filled with civility and prosperity. So I implore you, join the discussion. Follow the website at outspokenoppa.com to read up on the most current topics, become informed. I created the website so everyone has a voice. Be the voice that shapes the world into a haven of magnanimity and benevolence. Be the voice that embraces bipartisanship and the American way. But most of all, be outspoken.
