There are a few important points to be understood from the outset. For one, green beer has always been a poor choice and lacks any redeeming qualities. Furthermore, I am cynical about whether even St. Patrick in his heyday could banish all the political snakes from present-day Washington. The history of St. Patrick’s Day itself has its significant blemishes, specifically concerning inclusivity.

However, despite these issues, I propose that there is something inherent in America’s observance of the holiday that reflects our nation’s strengths – qualities we can and should emphasise, especially as we enter an intense, merciless election year.

Please don’t mistake this for the enamoured ramblings of a die-hard St. Patrick’s Day enthusiast. I grew up with a recognisably Irish name and had a decidedly lukewarm attitude towards a celebration that perpetuated so many stereotypes and misconceptions. As a young teenager well-versed in sarcasm, I would jokingly claim it was my duty to be Irish every day of the year, barring March 17th. I also witnessed many attempts to categorise Americans based on ethnic, religious or racial differences, which often perpetuated divisions rather than fostering a healthy sense of pride.

Yet, my perspective has softened with time. What sparked this change? Partly, a deeper understanding of history. St. Patrick’s Day parades have been a part of American tradition for an incredibly long time – the first of them took place well before the Declaration of Independence was signed. Initially a display of Irish pride (sometimes bordering on rebellion), these parades have grown increasingly inclusive over the centuries. Like the greatest parts of the American story, they have opened their ranks to more and more people, whether as parade participants or spectators.

This didn’t come easily, and even involved a significant Supreme Court case regarding access for LGBTQ groups. It may seem like the Supreme Court makes all the decisions nowadays, but while that specific decision cemented the right to limit parade participation, it wasn’t the final say. What tipped the scales were shifting perspectives and the courage of political and business leaders to advocate for inclusion.

Witnessing multiple St. Patrick’s Day “miracles” also played a key role in changing my attitude. One of these is a longstanding breakfast tradition in Boston where Republicans and Democrats put their political differences aside and choose humor instead of stinging political remarks. Humor plays a vital role in the magic of St. Patrick’s Day. Jokes that spite others contribute to our shared angst and resentment. Meanwhile, laughing at ourselves and each other is what mends fences and builds bridges.

I’ve been to several parades, including a large one in my conservative town in Florida, where I’ve seen a diverse group of Americans happily marching and cheering for each other. Community celebrations are quite powerful and beautiful – and regrettably rare in present-day America.

Unfortunately, holidays have become increasingly complicated and politicized recently. We must tread cautiously when extending heartfelt greetings, like the “Merry Christmas” vs. “Happy Holidays” dilemma. Fortunately, St. Patrick’s Day has remained immune to this, and it’s crucial we maintain this. It has no sides to pick, no scores to keep, and isn’t about political colors — it’s just about varying, often flamboyant, shades of green. Just be yourself, whether you’re celebrating Irish culture or the arrival of spring. St. Patrick’s Day is a representation of America at its most authentically superior and down-to-earth.

We urgently require more special occasions like these when we set aside our ‘us against them’ mindset and unite as one. These are moments when we can dress up in goofy costumes, avoid discussing politics, and honor the diverse contributions that make up the American family. This perspective and the principles it represents should be emphasized every day.

Election day, for instance, could be seen as a celebration of these elements of the American spirit. Yes, we will end up voting for varied candidates, but we could also perceive it as a chance to collectively express our gratitude for the liberties we have and acknowledge those who made substantial sacrifices to ensure these liberties for us. The takeaway is that occasions like St. Patrick’s Day highlight our capacity to celebrate collectively without focusing on our disagreements, grievances, or anger. If we can achieve this (though imperfectly) even for a single day, it implies we can replicate this more regularly. I firmly believe that for America’s continuing evolution to succeed, we must muster the wisdom and bravery to accomplish just that.

Just a heads up, if our volatile political environment is tempting you to have green beer or even something stronger to dull the senses, you should first check out Citizen Connect. I am a co-founder of this non-partisan online platform, which lists 600 organizations intent on finding common ground.