Is America a Woman? A “Her” or an “It”?

We are now being told that pronouns must be applied according to one’s preference rather than one’s biological distinction, and one’s preference can be based on gender rather than biological sex.  This raises the question about using female pronouns when referring to our nation.  For example:

It comes from the concept of motherhood, with the idea of a nation giving “birth” to her people.  Furthermore, one’s country is expected to protect and nurture her people, just like a mother nurtures her children.

In recent years, however, with all the pronoun craziness being discussed, America is often called “it.”  And to be clear, using “it” would be considered more grammatically correct. However, as already said, “her” is used symbolically,with beautiful symbolism.

If “It” Replaces “Her”

It’s likely only a matter of time before we are told to sing,

“God bless America, land that I love.
Stand beside it and guide it,
Through the night with the light from above.”

Now won’t that be sad?  Furthermore, we understand “the light from above” as God’s light and guidance.  But sadly, in time, that too will likely be reworded to remove “God.”

And don’t forget that some people are not proud to be Americans. They don’t see our land as beautiful, nor do they consider the nation blessed by any deity.

Perhaps the song will one day be rewritten to say, “People bless America, land where I live.  Stand beside it and guide it, through the night, with the sun from above.” That might please all the dissenting people, but it would certainly sadden those of us who love our God and country and pray for God’s blessings on the Great USA.

“Her” or “It”?

There is nothing inherently wrong with the use of “her” (or “she”) for America.  Although during the 2020 campaign season, a writer for The Hill declared:

“At the conclusion of her speech, Kimberley Guilfoyle stated, ‘Stand for an American president who is fearless, who believes in you, and who loves this country and will fight for her.’

“This rhetorical technique stood out to me, a human rights attorney with an expertise in hate speech, as equally subtle, deliberate, and dangerous. It is applying a female personification to America that leverages biases against women for political gain.” (emphasis, mine)

Really?  Calling America a “her” is dangerous?  The female pronoun is a “bias against women”? Perhaps the writer doesn’t understand that if one is born in America, America is said to be one’s motherland.  Or perhaps this is just another way to create division in what was founded as, and intended to be, the United States of America.

Take Pride in America

Our nation was founded as “one nation under God,” with biblical principles and precepts.  We have many reasons to love her and to have hope for our future.

Watch “Why I Love America,” by legendary actor John Wayne (1907-1979). He began with, “You ask me why I love her?” Then he answered with 24 reasons!

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