A Shift in Symbolism: Morgan Akin’s Stand Against Change
Earlier this year, Morgan Akin, an 84-year-old Vietnam-era veteran and retired game warden, quietly took down the American flag that had flown for decades outside his home in the conservative heart of far northern California. Although it may seem like a minor act, this gesture was laden with meaning for Akin and his family. For him, it signified a personal stand against a country that has begun to feel increasingly unrecognizable amid a backdrop of societal upheaval and governmental decisions that clash with his values.
A Growing Discontent
In the weeks leading up to his decision, Akin witnessed a series of events that compounded his feelings of disenchantment. From the arrest of an international student who had peacefully voiced her opinions, to military parades celebrating the whims of those in power, his discomfort grew. “The American flag won’t fly again until things get straightened out down the line and administrations change,” Akin remarked, illustrating his deep-seated concerns about the current state of the nation and the treatment of immigrants.
From Silence to Protest
Historically, Akin had never engaged in protests. But this year marked a departure from that silence; he and his wife joined three demonstrations advocating for social justice, veteran affairs, and a more humane approach to governance. A CNN poll pointed to a broader sentiment among older Americans, showcasing that only 37% of his generational cohort approve of the current administration’s performance. Akin is notably an anomaly, as the majority of U.S. veterans generally lean Republican, yet he has consistently identified as a Democrat.
Roots of Political Identity
Akin’s political identity is deeply intertwined with his upbringing in segregated Texas during a tumultuous era of civil rights. While he loved his home state, he found it rife with prejudice, and this has left a lasting impression on his political affiliations. The lessons of unity and camaraderie learned during his time in the Marine Corps shaped his views significantly. “You all bled the same way,” he said, reflecting on a shared humanity that caused him to lean Democrat from his first voter registration.
Life in Shasta County
After years of service, Akin transitioned into a career as a game warden, a role that took him across various landscapes in California before settling in Shasta County. He and his wife found a community they cherished, fostering deep ties through volunteering and engaging in local events. With 52% of the county’s nearly 116,000 registered voters identifying as Republican, Akin has often felt like an outsider, though that rarely deterred him from expressing his viewpoints.
Navigating a Polarized Community
Despite the divisions, Akin had managed to coexist peacefully within the local political landscape—until recently. Discontent among some community members became palpable, particularly after he displayed Biden and Harris campaign signs in his front yard. In 2024, however, requests came from fellow residents urging him to remove Harris’s sign, which he steadfastly resisted. This marked a shift for him, as he now feels the upsurge of far-right sentiments complicates even his daily interactions.
Concern for Democracy
As national politics grow ever more chaotic, Akin finds himself glued to news reports, disturbed by the increasing attacks on the judiciary and the treatment of immigrants. The arrest of protesters, particularly incidents involving masked agents detaining individuals, reignites his wariness about governmental overreach. His insights into these events underscore a collective fear among some citizens regarding the implications of an administration that prioritizes division over unity.
Stakes for the Future
His concerns extend well beyond his own existence; at 84, he feels a heavy burden of responsibility for the future well-being of his children and grandchildren. Being a veteran with a disability, he relies on the VA system for care, and the looming threats of budget cuts and staffing reductions heighten his anxieties. “What happens to me is immaterial because I’m 84 years old,” Akin stated, underscoring his worries about the legacy and quality of life that will confront younger generations.
A New Symbol of Resilience
Though the American flag remains unflown, Akin still chooses to display a U.S. Marines flag alongside a Ukrainian flag, showcasing solidarity with those facing oppression. The palpable sense of disappointment washes over him when he sees flags used as political statements, particularly those emblazoned with controversial imagery. “It’s just much more toxic now,” he says, capturing the change in meaning the flag once held for him.
Moving Forward with Conviction
This complex interplay of history, personal beliefs, and a rapidly changing political landscape informs Akin’s ongoing commitment to advocacy and activism. For him, the act of protest has become not just a means of expression, but a vital part of preparing for the uncertain future he anticipates. Akin’s story stands as a poignant reminder of the evolving nature of patriotism and the voices that rise amid growing discontent.
