It seems a crude way to begin any investigation, but now seems an appropriate time to turn to the Oxford English Dictionary for the obligatory definition. Patriotism is then, “the loyal support of one’s country”.

Unfortunately though, this term is being manipulated for more sinister causes. Nationalists and xenophobes are increasingly classing themselves as ‘patriots’, in an attempt to paint a picture of heroic defiance.

Only this morning I received a flyer through the door from the British National Party, canvassing support for the upcoming European elections. This far-right group of fascists claim to be pursuing interests that are in line with the above definition. They list moments of national pride, such as D-Day and the battle of Trafalgar, under the slogan “Because We’ve Earned the Right”.

Anyone who knows the true motives of this ‘political’ party knows that it is a poorly disguised attempt to incite racial hatred within Britain. Any group that bases an entire political manifesto around the misguided concept that “it’s not racist to oppose mass immigration and political correctness – it’s common sense”, is bound to attract only the most bitter and twisted members of society – who direct their anger at their own misgivings at people they see as easy targets.

My own outrage stems from the fact that I consider myself to be a patriot, in the strictest sense of the word. I feel immense pride to have been born where I was. I also know that this has not affected my opinion of other nationalities, and my desire to integrate and experience their cultures. I can also acknowledge when my government or countrymen behave in a manner that is not acceptable.

There are millions of others like me – who celebrate everything that the British achieve in a constructive and positive manner. One only has to look at the excitement generated around the country, upon hearing that London had secured the rights to host the 2012 Olympics. It is a wonderful example of true patriotism. It was a demonstration of the pride felt by all of us, that our capital city had been deemed worthy of staging the greatest show on earth. When it takes place, the event will be a chance to invite people from around the world to experience the rich multi-culturalism that is inherent within our capital city. They will, similarly, be able to show their patriotic streaks by cheering on their nation’s athletes in competition.

Such sporting events are examples of the ability of true patriots being able to coexist: patriotism and integration are not mutually exclusive.

In recent times ‘patriotism’ has become a dirty word, and one that people feel ashamed to associate with themselves. This I believe is something of a mistake. Many of the same people would have no objection to admitting to loving their place of origin, but they fear being tarred with the ‘racist brush’. I am not surprised that so many people approach the issue with trepidation: to be classed as a patriot is to be seen to reject ideas such as freedom of movement and globalisation. But this is not the case. Being proud of one’s cultural identity can go hand in hand with an appreciation of diversity. There is a huge distinction between the millions of people who pack bars across the country to support British sporting interests, and the thugs that perpetuate violence abroad.

Although this piece has been written from a British-centric position, it is not an issue that is exclusively limited to this country. Nationalism unfortunately, is prevalent in every corner of the globe. People across the world hide behind the excuse that they have the best interests of their country at heart when, in actuality, they are blaming their own personal shortcomings on a perceived ‘other’.

In order to promote ‘patriotism’, as understood in its egalitarian context, the term should be redefined – so as to distance it from its discriminatory stigma. As the composition of modern nation-states has altered, so has the concept of national pride. We can be proud of having such a rich melting pot of cultures and nationalities living alongside each other, and proud to have a pluralistic and democratic system of government that allows such relationships to thrive.

It is the job of us real patriots, who have a positive sense of national pride, to restore faith in the term. This can be only achieved by universally rejecting far-right ideologies and practices, and promoting diversity within a national framework. The historical patriots, immortalised in folklore, were heroes because they fought against oppressive regimes. The bigots, who tarnish their names by associating such historical causes with their own, would do well to realise that.