WHY THIS INDEPENDENCE DAY FEELS DIFFERENT FROM PRIOR YEARS

It’s July 4^th – Independence Day in the United States. Each year we mark this country’s formation with fireworks, barbeques, parades, and an acknowledgement of the pillars of The Declaration of Independence for which our forefathers fought. These pillars include liberty, democracy, and self-government.

This year is the Country’s 250^th birthday. That’s quite a milestone, but when I look back on the bicentennial celebration of 1976, this year’s festivities, and quite frankly, the country look very different.

Americans now live in a very divided country. A country where we are no longer surprised by gunfire; racial targeting is an everyday occurrence; and both primary political parties are moving further away from center. Quite frankly I don’t recognize either party as the parties of my childhood.

We can go back and forth about why this is happening, but I think it is more important to focus on, this day of all days, what the spirit of the Declaration of Independence was all about.

When our Founders created the original 13 colonies it was a symbol of self-determination, democratic ideals, and human dignity. It was freedom from British rule and tyranny. 250-years later, I can’t help but wonder how these basic ideals got so distorted.

I do know that as long as we remain a democratic society, we will continue to have the right to vote and this must be preserved at all costs. The U.S. has no kings, just as our individual toiling isn’t collectively controlled.

I believe that on this July 4^th we must all take a good look at what the intention of the Declaration of Independence was when it was written in 1776. Times change, but the foundation of this country’s formation needs to be reviewed now and in the future.

Self-evident truths (equality and unalienable rights), consent of the governed (the basis of a legitimate government), right to revolution (when government becomes destructive of these rights) – all pieces of a true democracy where each citizen can vote and have a say in its government.

Mid-terms are four months away. While you may vote for a different candidate than the one I support, it is your right to do so and that is what needs to be celebrated today. So, as you enjoy your barbecue, and watch the Fireworks, make a promise to yourself and the country that you will go out and vote in November. Your vote is based on your individuality and not the control of anyone else or group.

This Independence Day does feels different from prior years. Sure, there are fireworks and barbecues, but I can’t help but notice that the celebrations are more low key than they have been in the past. The country is at a cross-roads and we must all contribute to its future by going to the polls and vote.

“One person can make a difference and everyone must try.” – John F. Kennedy