Hooray for the red white and blue!

Today is July 4th, but just what does that mean? Although the holiday is officially called Independence Day, it is more frequently referred to by just its date and people seem to have forgotten about freedom and independence. On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress declared that the thirteen American colonies regarded themselves as a brand-new nation, the United States of America, and no longer part of the British Empire. We declared our independence.

So, this is a patriotic day. This is a day to celebrate being American. Of course, the parades and the fireworks and the picnics and music, all help us to do this, but there are many other ways we can observe this day. How about resolving to make our nation better than ever? How about fighting for real equality? Today is supposed to be a celebration of independence and freedom, but it is hard to celebrate when fundamental human rights have been eliminated.

In the term just ended, the Supreme Court of the United States has gutted Miranda rights, ended regulations on open-carry of guns, overturned Roe vs. Wade, allowed prayer in schools by employees, and ended federal regulation of greenhouse gases. Several states have passed laws discriminating against transgender people. Numerous states have taken away a woman's right to make her own health choices. I see more and more freedoms being stripped away. Now, what are WE going to do?

Perhaps we can use this day to volunteer for a campaign of some kind. Working on a political campaign will often give a glimpse of the many things needed to keep our communities strong and vibrant.

Climate change is real. Are we doing anything about it? How clean is your community? Working with a beautification project - picking up litter or painting over graffiti is a good way to give back to our community, but there are many other ways. Use your imagination. Get creative.

When we wave our flag, what are we really saying? Do we believe in liberty and justice for everyone? The United States is indeed a great country, but it will become even greater when we ALL are really equal and respected. When that day is here, we can truly say Hooray for the red, white, and blue!