Not sure what to tell the students? Play them “This Is Me” from The Greatest Showman:

I am not a stranger to the dark
Hide away, they say
‘Cause we don’t want your broken parts
I’ve learned to be ashamed of all my scars
Run away, they say
No one’ll love you as you are

If America were to sing that, we’d tell he we love her, even when she does not live up to our ideals. That’s what patriotism is. Then tell them…well, listen to find out.