John,

Every year, our nation marks the Fourth of July by celebrating independence, opportunity, and freedom—ideals that are passed off as universal but are, in reality, only enjoyed by a select few Americans.

But this is no ordinary Fourth of July.

Right now in the United States, we’re witnessing the convergence of an unprecedented global pandemic and a historic reckoning with the nation’s foundations in structural racism and oppression. Our country is finally recognizing what our movement has been saying for decades: that if we want to truly live up to our values, then we must have monumental structural changes and recognize the ways people like us have built and strengthened this country. 

And while this moment of reckoning is an important step forward, our movement for justice can't let up. People like us—New Americans, people of color, immigrants, and allies—must continue speaking out, holding leaders accountable, organizing our communities, and using this moment to create the changes we need to create an inclusive democracy. 

This Fourth of July, join New American Leaders in using this moment to take action. By spending just a few moments this holiday weekend to act, you are helping create a more free and fair future—one where the value and dignity of each person is recognized and the promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness is open to all, not just the pale, stale, and male.

Here are a few things you can do to make a difference: 

1. Learn our history

• We’re in this moment and continued struggle for justice because of centuries of oppression and racism. To dismantle systems built on white supremacy and anti-Blackness, we need to understand how we got here. Read this opinion article on the important role immigrants have played in the creation of this nation. Also check out this online series from the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which starts the process of un-whitewashing history, highlighting the experiences and stories of African Americans. 

2. Stay Engaged

• Get involved in local politics. Whether you run for office, work or volunteer for a campaign, support a political organization, or become a poll worker, you can help stop systems of oppression in your community.
• Vote! Have you checked your voter registration status? Make sure you and your friends' and family's voter registrations are up-to-date. We need all #PeopleLikeUs ready to vote on Election Day!
• Hold elected leaders accountable to creating change. Ask them to defund the police, stop supporting ICE, protect voter rights, and stand with our communities.
• Follow the movement builders, especially Black elected officials and activists. Here's a list of a few must-follow leaders. 
• Stay in the loop with NAL and our movement for justice! Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to get important updates.

3. Create Change

• Call out racism and anti-Blackness. Whether at work, with friends or family, or in your broader community, it's important to call out and end hate.
• Keep growing. Learn how you can be more actively anti-racist and help others do the same.
• Support Black-owned businesses. Show solidarity by supporting Black and all BIPOC business owners in your community!

Thanks for taking a moment this weekend to take action. Your continued efforts and support of our movement brings us one step closer to ensuring that our American ideals are truly accessible for all.