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Friend,
Today marks our country’s annual celebration of freedom. On July 4th 1776, American leaders declared sovereignty and liberty from colonial rule; and declared the belief that “all men are created equal”. But this day does not represent freedom for all Americans.
For 89 years after the U.S. declared independence, Black people continued to be enslaved in this country. And the remnants of slavery, a system on which this country was built upon, live on in our modern day systems.
This year has forced many Americans to reckon with long-held beliefs about racism and freedom in the United States. Those who have long been able to ignore the injustices of our systems, both macro and micro, have been forced to witness the grief and anger Black Americans so rightfully carry every day.
This Independence Day I want to reflect on what freedom means in our country. What truth is there in “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” when so few of us are truly able to access the opportunities promised by the American Dream?
I believe that to begin to right the wrongs in history, we must first acknowledge our history. That is why so many in this country are calling for the recognition of Juneteenth as a federal holiday. Juneteenth marks a day of liberation for Black people in the United States, and is as important to our history as Independence Day.
This is a rather small step, but the recognition of our history is an important one in facing our country’s wrongdoings and being equipped to do the work of dismantling systems of oppression.
This Independence Day I invite you to join me in reflecting on what freedom can and should mean and represent in the United States. We must do better, and that starts with understanding our history and acknowledging that we are not free until all of us are free.
Let’s build a better future for all.
— Alex
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