Reflecting on Freedom
A Call for Thoughtful Celebration
As we approach the 4th of July, a day synonymous with freedom, independence, and national pride, many of us may find ourselves planning barbecues, watching fireworks, and enjoying time with our families. It's a day to celebrate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, a pivotal moment in our nation's history. But as we don our red, white, and blue, it’s also important to pause and reflect on the deeper meaning of this day. The 4th of July is meant to commemorate freedom. Yet, while we celebrate the freedoms we enjoy, we must also acknowledge that the path to true freedom has been, and continues to be, a complex and often troubling journey.
When the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence, the idea of freedom was selective. Enslaved African Americans, Indigenous peoples, and women were excluded from these promises. The history of the United States is marred by instances where freedom was denied to many while being championed for a select few. In modern times, we see the remnants of these injustices in various forms of systemic oppression. From racial inequalities and gender discrimination to economic disparities and restrictions on voting rights, many citizens still face challenges to their freedoms.
Living in the United States does grant us certain freedoms that are rare in many parts of the world. We have the freedom of speech, the right to vote, and the liberty to pursue happiness in myriad ways. These are significant and worth celebrating. However, these freedoms are not absolute and are not equally distributed. This 4th of July, let’s celebrate our freedoms while also using this day as an opportunity for introspection and discussion about how we can create a more inclusive and truly free society.
Here are some ways we can thoughtfully observe Independence Day:
Educate Ourselves and Our Families: Learn about the full history of Independence Day, including the perspectives of marginalized communities. Share this knowledge with our children to foster a deeper understanding of what freedom means.
Support Local and National Efforts for Justice: Get involved with or donate to organizations that work towards social justice and equality. This can be a way to contribute to the ongoing fight for freedom for all.
Engage in Meaningful Conversations: Use gatherings as an opportunity to discuss the importance of freedom and the work that still needs to be done. Encourage open dialogue about our country’s history and current issues.
Reflect on Personal Contributions: Think about how we, as individuals and families, can contribute to a more just society. This could be through volunteering, advocating for policy changes, or simply being more mindful of our own actions and biases.
As we light up the sky with fireworks, let’s also light up our minds and hearts with a commitment to understanding and improving the freedoms we cherish. By doing so, we can honor the true spirit of the 4th of July and work towards a future where freedom is a reality for everyone.
Happy 4th of July to all the wonderful moms out there! Let’s make this a day of celebration, reflection, and action.
Tori Lothian
 |
|