Did you know... The United States declared its independence only after colonists, who were once in favor of Great Britain’s rule, joined in the fight for complete independence. Pamphlets like, “Common Sense” by Thomas Paine, united enough of the public to push towards a revolution and eventually the Declaration of Independence and Bill of Rights. [1]
For African American people, other minorities and women, the freedoms outlined in these founding documents were not, at the time, intrinsic. Rights, as we have seen, have taken time and massive efforts to be dispersed equitably, for all people.
Since the Declaration of Independence was published on July 4th, 1776, communities big and small have united to ensure that the freedoms outlined in the Declaration of Independence are freedoms entitled to everyone, no matter their race, gender, religion, sexuality, or class. Today, in 2023, we are in the midst of social and political movements, pushing, as a united front, towards a country that represents everyone.
“As an immigrant, I appreciate, far more than the average American, the liberties we have in this country. Silence is a big enemy of morality. I don’t want our blunders in history to get repeated.”
– Gloria Estefan
July 4th is an opportunity to learn about the history of this country, and the strides we have accomplished as a collective since then. Take note of what inequities still exist, and like the revolutionaries in 1776, unite with your community to continue to mold America into the great country it one day will be.