The fourth of July is approaching. In my family, it's a big day. Not only is it a federal holiday, but it also happens to be the birthday of both my wife and my sister-in-law.
Because the day is so special and unique to my family, I often forget what the holiday is really about. It's official name is "Independence Day." It commemorates the Declaration of Independence and the official separation of the 13 original colonies from the rule of Britain. It's the national day of the United States. It's something worth celebrating.
But as I sit here on July 1, 2022, I'm thinking a lot about what "independence" really means in the context of our country. 246 years removed from the first Independence Day, I struggle to find reason to celebrate "independence" in our country.
Just days ago, our supreme court overturned a long-standing precedent to allow women the independence to choose how to handle their bodies and health with regard to pregnancy. The patriarchy is ever strong.
Just weeks ago, a mentally ill person walked into an elementary school and murdered 19 children and 2 adults using an assault weapon that he purchased legally just days before. Nevermind that this happened just 10 days after another mass shooting in Buffalo. Our children and teachers do not have the freedom of independence from the threat of a shooter within their schools.
And just 18 months ago, our president attempted a violent coup to obstruct the election and maintain his position of power. If we don't have independence from the tyranny of our highest elected officials, do we have independence at all?
And this is to say nothing of the myriad of ways that one particular political party is using black-hat tactics to maintain their positions of power, despite representing only a minority of the popular opinion. Examples include their intense focus on enacting legislation that restricts the access to voting among particular demographics, and their use of the filibuster. To me, the GOP is enacting the exact opposite of what it means to enjoy and celebrate "independence."
So, this year on the fourth of July, on this so-called "Independence Day" I'll be celebrating with a heavy heart. I'll be thinking about ways me and my family can be proactive and create the kinds of change we want to see in our country. I'll be thinking about independence.