A Better America for Everyone: Moving Beyond "America First" to a Vision of Shared Prosperity

"A nation’s strength isn’t measured by who it excludes, but by how boldly it uplifts all who call it home. True prosperity is not a competition—it is a shared promise." - Mary Coughlin

The False Choice We’ve Been Given

The phrase "America First" sounds powerful. It makes people feel like their well-being is finally being prioritized. But in practice, it’s been used to pit people against each other—as if the only way for some Americans to succeed is for others to be pushed aside.

But here’s the truth: We don’t have to choose between helping immigrants and helping longtime citizens. We don’t have to choose between economic growth and human dignity. We don’t have to choose between justice and security.

A thriving, resilient America isn’t built on fear and exclusion—it’s built on belonging, fairness, and opportunity for all.

The Real Question: Who Benefits from Division?

When we are told to blame immigrants for job losses, social struggles, or cultural shifts, we should pause and ask:

• Who benefits when we fight each other instead of working together?

• Who gains power when we see each other as enemies instead of allies?

• What if our shared struggles could unite us rather than divide us?

The truth is, the well-being of immigrants and the well-being of American citizens are not in conflict. In fact, when we build systems that care for the most vulnerable, everyone benefits.

A More Honest Conversation About Security and Well-Being

It’s easy to say "America First!" But a deeper, more courageous conversation would ask:

• What does it mean to take care of Americans?

• Who counts as “American” when we talk about inclusion and belonging?

• How do we create security and opportunity for everyone—without exclusion or fear?

Here’s what real security looks like:
✅ A strong, resilient economy where everyone has access to fair wages.
✅ Affordable healthcare so families aren’t financially devastated by illness.
✅ Safe, stable communities where people can thrive—no matter where they were born.
✅ Policies that reflect compassion, dignity, and fairness—not fear-based exclusion.

When we invest in these things, we all rise together.

We Need a New Narrative: A Society of Shared Prosperity

Instead of either/or thinking (either we support immigrants OR we support Americans), what if we embraced a yes/and vision?

• Yes, we can create fair economic policies that support working families.

• Yes, we can have compassionate immigration policies that respect human dignity.

• Yes, we can prioritize security without sacrificing our values.

• Yes, we can build a future where no one is left behind.

A great nation is not built on exclusion—it is built on belonging.

What If We Stopped Fighting Each Other?

Imagine if we used all the energy spent blaming, fearing, and dividing… and redirected it toward building solutions that uplift everyone.

💡 What if we focused on creating opportunity rather than closing doors?
💡 What if we measured success by how many people thrive—not by how many are left out?
💡 What if we replaced fear-based politics with healing-centered leadership?

This isn’t about being “pro” or “anti” anyone—it’s about being pro-humanity.

Call to Action: A Future Rooted in Unity, Not Fear

We have a choice. We can keep falling for the same divisive rhetoric that has been used for centuries.
Or we can choose a different path—one based on dignity, fairness, and shared well-being.

📢 Let’s build an America where all people have the chance to flourish.
🔁 Share if you believe in a future rooted in hope, not division.

🇺🇸 America’s greatness has never been about walls or divisions—it has always been about the courage to build, to welcome, and to rise together. Let’s reclaim that spirit. Let’s create a future where dignity, justice, and belonging aren’t just ideals, but realities for all.

💙 Because a nation thrives when its people thrive—ALL its people.

Take care

Mary

P.S.: The work of healing starts with each of us. Join the movement. Become a Trauma-Informed Professional and help lead the way toward a future built on compassion, equity, and shared prosperity. Enroll in TIP today! 🌎✨