For the United States, the Super Bowl is Independence Day in February.

The NFL leans into the spectacle, patriotism and capitalism that only a major American event like the Super Bowl can provide. Before “the big game” even starts, absurd prop bets and weeks of media hype saturate the news cycle. The game can’t kick off without a rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner”, all while a gigantic American flag floods the field and fighter jets fly overhead with fireworks blasting through the sky. Millions of viewers around the world tune in just to witness the grandiose commercials and extravagant halftime show in a showcase of the NFL’s power. The Super Bowl is America at its most America and there’s no way to escape it.

But an event that unapologetically celebrates America’s greatness is troubling at a time when America isn’t so great.

READ THE FULL STORY ON THE VENT