Oxford’s Learner’s Dictionaries defines patriotism as a devotion to and support for one’s country, while nationalism is identifying with one’s own nation and support for its interests, especially to the exclusion of other nations’ interests. I have pondered these terms after observing woven bracelets labeled “Spain,” displaying the flag’s colors. American classmates told me the bracelets signify nationalism. My Spanish host mom told me they didn’t: Wearing the bracelet was similar to displaying an American flag. I dwelled on her sentiment: Could wearing the U.S. flag signify mere patriotism? Or does it have to symbolize nationalism?

Patriotism and nationalism are becoming synonymous. I avoid wearing clothes that display the American flag, worrying my patriotism signifies nationalism. Looking at recent tariffs, I have reason to believe so. Although most goods are excluded from these tariffs (according to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), Mexico is currently facing 30% tariffs, while Canada is facing 35% tariffs. Such economic nationalism — that other nations must suffer for the U.S. to succeed — constructs national identity. The U.S. is experiencing a wave of nationalism. Why wouldn’t any display of national pride be attributed as such?

In other ways, patriotism and nationalism are distinct. I feel patriotic while reading headlines, talking to peers and even scrolling on TikTok about New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. Although some see Mamdani as polarizing, lowering the cost of living is not. In an opinion column for The Guardian, Robert Reich attributed Mamdani’s success among young people to the politician’s vision of a fairer America, care for real people and advocacy for practical solutions. I hope for America’s future success, one that isn’t elicited from other nations’ failures. This hope makes me want to wear my country’s flag.

The struggle between American symbols as patriotic or nationalistic embodies a larger conflict between opposing visions of the U.S.’s identity and future. Hatred and equality are grappling for a chance to dominate the U.S. and always have. We are at a crossroads to become a patriotic and nationalistic nation, or solely a patriotic one.