What Does America Mean to Me? Pt. IV

On the eve of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, we asked a group of leading Pittsburghers to consider and answer that question. We thank them for giving their thoughts on this important occasion.

Previously in this series: What Does America Mean to Me? Pt. III

TIM PARKS, CEO, LIFE’SWORK While the America of this moment, with its “mask” off, is a divisive, sometimes cruel and disheartening place, we must remember that this time is just one of many such moments in our country’s history. I believe that deeper in the mind and spirit of most Americans, as well as in the perception of many throughout the world, America remains an irrepressible beacon of hope — a place where one can aspire to and achieve dreams, whatever they may be, and eventually do so in a kinder, more inclusive and more forgiving space.

MARY W. MURRIN, PRESIDENT & CEO, RIVERS OF STEEL America means dignity of work. Immigrants come for a better life. My ancestors, like many, came with little or nothing and were proud to build better lives for future generations. I was raised to believe that there are no lesser people and no little jobs. All who work deserve dignity and respect. Enslaved and indigenous peoples were not afforded these rights, and 250 years later, we are still fighting for a land of the free, liberty and justice, and dignity of work for all.

LEW IRWIN, POLITICAL SCIENCE PROFESSOR, DUQUESNE UNIVERSITY & MAJOR GENERAL, U.S. ARMY (RETIRED) Two hundred fifty years ago, our founders articulated an enlightened vision of a government that would serve all of its people, rather than just the wealthy or the well-connected. All of these years later, it’s clear that we have had our challenges along the way, as our nation has embarked upon this noble experiment. But we are still here! Let’s recommit ourselves to restoring and realizing that worthy vision as we move forward into the future. The United States is still the world’s last, best hope for freedom, human dignity, and the rule of law.

OTTO CHU, INVESTMENT MANAGER The United States of America continues to be one of the greatest nations in the history of the world. It is a nation of great freedoms and enormous opportunities. This is based upon a political republic with a unique system of constitutional rights and laws. However, people often forget that with great freedoms come great responsibilities. As a society, we must work hard to preserve these freedoms and opportunities. We need to be continually vigilant to preserve our great republic and the freedoms that come with it.

ROXANN BOOSER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, THE MARIDON MUSEUM I’m old enough to remember celebrating our bicentennial. I recall seeing decorations around town, parades, and many celebrations on television. We came together on this one truth, then and now: We live in the greatest country in the world. As we celebrate our 250th anniversary, my wish is that we all come together again and remember that America represents hope. I feel blessed to live in this country of opportunity for all who embrace the American spirit to achieve through honesty, hard work, respect for others, courage, and freedom.

DONALD BONK, CIVIC CONSULTANT America is the freedom to succeed or fail … and learn from it and try again. It is the freedom to try as many times as necessary to succeed, for as long as you live. Our Declaration of Independence cites our God-given guarantees of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The pursuit of happiness was a distinct contribution by Thomas Jefferson. Happiness is deeply personal and purposeful. One person’s happiness isn’t necessarily another’s.

JORDAN EVANS, 11TH GRADER, THE ELLIS SCHOOL To me, America means a nation in which its inhabitants are able to unite their diverse cultures and perspectives for the greater good of society. I believe that this unique opportunity America presents for its citizens should be celebrated and not jeopardized in any way by its leaders or fellow Americans. America is, and always will be, a nation built by and populated with immigrants, and that fact is a vital piece of history that should be recognized and not feared.

ART STROYD, ATTORNEY & MEDIATOR America means making choices and, in turn, having opportunities. Americans can choose from 20 kinds of breakfast cereal or 100 different TV channels, and we can choose to study diligently, to work hard and to be a success. It’s every American’s choice to make — not a birthright, as in some countries. America means making choices and realizing boundless opportunities.

NEVENA CARRINGTON, FOUNDER, I RELOCATION CONCIERGE To me, the United States is a living mosaic of diversity, shaped by people from every corner of the world who bring their cultures, ideas, and ambition. It represents opportunity, freedom, and a relentless can-do spirit that drives progress in technology, medicine, and education. It’s also deeply personal: the birthplace of my children. Yet the United States remains a work in progress. By creating fairer livability, lowering healthcare costs, addressing gun culture, and prioritizing global peace over profit, this land of promise could become one of the best places in the world.

FLAVIO CHAMIS, COMPOSER Born in Brazil and having lived in five countries, I know a version of America that looks a stranger in the eye, extends a hand, and means it. Here, I built a family, lived through successes and failures, and became part of a community that fully accepted me. Yet 250 demands reflection. The country that the world looked to for steadiness and guidance is making allies uncertain and straining old friendships. My concern comes from love, from knowing what it means to be an American, and from a father’s worry for his children’s future. I remain deeply grateful for the opportunities and celebrate with loyalty, gratitude and a quiet, aching hope that America remains a beacon for the next 250.

DR. JOSE-ALAIN SAHEL, DIRECTOR, UPMC VISION INSTITUTE Over the past 10 years at Pitt and UPMC, I have often seen America at its best, as embodied by Ronald Salvitti, M.D. The son of a coal miner with vision loss, he became the first in his family to finish school, trained as a family physician, and then transformed ophthalmology as a pioneer of ultrasound cataract surgery, restoring sight to countless people. Founder of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Eye Center, he combined clinical excellence with innovation and generosity. As an Eye and Ear Foundation trustee, he endowed three chairs, advancing research in retinal degeneration. His inspiring integrity, humility, wisdom, and compassion exemplify what America means to me.