Love the Nation the Right Way!

In the jubilant atmosphere of Independence Day, people from all corners of the country flocked to Hanoi to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Independence - Freedom - Happiness on September 2. Yet alongside the beautiful images of unity, we must also confront an unflattering reality: uncivil behaviors that overshadow the sacred meaning of the holiday.

Workers collecting trash on the streets used for the A80 parade.

Some individuals are willing to charge millions of VND for nothing more than a seat with plastic chairs or a piece of cloth at parade viewing spots, justifying profiteering in the name of “patriotism.” Scuffles, jostling, even minor acts of violence broke out, turning what should have been a solemn occasion into disorder. And when the crowds dispersed, plastic waste, bottles, and trash left as silent witnesses to careless citizenship.

Image of litter scattered after people watched the rehearsal. Photo: PB NV

Patriotism is not about shouting slogans or draping oneself in the national flag while littering in its shadow. True patriotism begins with respect: for one another, for the city, and for the values safeguarded by generations who sacrificed their lives.

After the A80 parade rehearsal, volunteers and thousands of citizens joined together to clean up trash. Photo: Hùng Võ/Vietnam+

We can celebrate independence with pride and civility. That is the truest way to love our nation. Similarly, many citizens are recognized to embody this spirit of responsibility. Volunteers, alongside hundreds of young people and ordinary residents, joined hands to clean the streets after the parade. Some families carried their own trash home, quietly demonstrating that civic consciousness can shine brightly. Their actions remind us that patriotism is not only preserved in ceremonies but also lived out in the everyday choices we make for our country.