Flags flying, holiday season, a four day or five day weekend-this describes the 4th of July—the celebration of our independence day. When we enjoy our holiday season, do you stop to think about what this day means? 

We all know the story. The British powers-that-be decided to use the American colonies to finance their bloated empire. Since we were asked to give but were never given proper representation in Parliament, certain Americans reacted against this. They screamed, “No taxation, without proper representation” and decided to undertake one of the most revolutionary enterprises in the Modern Age: to break from their rulers and declare their independence. Nothing like this had happened before. Consider that just about every major country at that time had some type of ruler. It was a given that citizens answered to their ruler, who was usually God’s representative. Who would even think of fighting for their freedom and for the right to determine their futures? We did and we changed the world.

As bad as things seem to be here at the US, we have it much better than many other people. Just the other night, I heard Wyclef Jean speak at the BET Awards. He told about going from a hut in Haiti, to the projects and, then, to a mansion. Where else could this be possible? In the US. Here we have the liberty to say just about anything that we want and not be afraid of secret police making us “disappear.” We have the right to be able to protest peacefully and not be afraid of getting shot by government troops. We have the right to vote without being forced by threats to vote for “the right candidate.” We have so many rights that others in this world are not fortunate enough to have. Let us not forget this.

So as you enjoy your vacation while eating BBQ with your loved ones and enjoy a day of being away from the office, remember what you’re celebrating. We are celebrating yet another of our country’s birthdays. Just as it’s true with us, it’s a celebration of one more year of existence—another year to enjoy what for us is The American Dream. So when you celebrate all of this that has been given to you, remember to appreciate and protect it. Here’s to the 4th of July.

 

Author: José A. Rodríguez