Skip to content
quotesby

About this quote

What does it mean?
National unity comes from shared values rather than shared ancestry or geography.
In plain terms
Ideals bind Americans together, not blood or birthplace.
What can you take from it?
Shared ideals create stronger bonds than shared origins.

Where it applies

  • naturalization ceremonies
  • patriotic speeches
  • civic education

Putting it to work

  • focus on shared values
  • build inclusive communities

Questions to consider

  • What ideals bind your community together?
  • How do you define citizenship?

Another view

Economic or social divisions can still fracture unity even with shared ideals.

More from George W. Bush

  1. The peaceful transfer of authority is rare in history, yet common in our country. With a simple oath, we affirm old traditions and make new beginnings.

    Permalink to quote #311
  2. We are not this story's author, who fills time and eternity with His purpose. Yet His purpose is achieved in our duty, and our duty is fulfilled in service to …

    Permalink to quote #313
  3. America has never been an empire. We may be the only great power in history that had the chance, and refused - preferring greatness to power and justice to glo…

    Permalink to quote #310

Related quotes

  1. 'We have to recognise our cultural differences, but accept that they enrich our society. We also have to accept that all communities and citizens have contribu…

    Laisenia QaraseLaisenia Qarase quote #12
  2. God has made Canada one of those nations which cannot be conquered and cannot be destroyed, except by itself.

    Norman AngellNorman Angell quote #1
  3. 'Above all there is our fixed joint determination to build a strong and united Fiji, rich in diversity and pampered with tolerance, goodwill and understanding.…

    Ratu Sir Kamisese MaraRatu Sir Kamisese Mara quote #1