John Minadakis, co-owner of Jimmy’s Famous Seafood, didn’t hesitate to respond when he saw the attacks on American pride following Team USA’s Olympic victory. His reaction, blunt and unapologetic, quickly ignited a firestorm online. It was a moment born from decades of building a life rooted in the American dream.
Jimmy’s Seafood has been a cornerstone of East Baltimore since 1974. It began with John’s father, Jimmy, an immigrant from Greece who arrived in the late 1960s. He worked tirelessly – dishwasher, busboy, anything to save enough money to establish a family business.
“My father came here with nothing,” John explained, “He built this place from the ground up, and for us, Jimmy’s Seafood *is* the American dream.” It’s a legacy of hard work, perseverance, and a deep appreciation for the opportunities this country provides.
When news outlets began to downplay the significance of the USA Men’s Hockey team’s gold medal, suggesting Americans shouldn’t take pride in their country, the Minadakis family felt a line had been crossed. They responded with a message that resonated with many: “Go f*ck yourself.”
The response went viral, directed at publications like the Huff Post, the New York Times, and the Baltimore Sun. It wasn’t about politics; it was about defending the spirit of American achievement and refusing to apologize for national pride.
The family’s unwavering stance sparked a conversation, and while some criticized their language, many applauded their courage to speak out. It was a powerful reminder that for some, the American dream isn’t just a phrase – it’s a lived reality worth defending.
