At the end of history… were the Founding Fathers successful?
Today we remember the wealthiest seven men that represented white, and colonialist interests. They ensured that only men like themselves would stay in power for centuries to come. And they really achieved their goal!
The Declaration of Independence, signed in 1776, proclaimed that "all men are created equal" and possessed certain unalienable rights, including "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." However, these words were not fully realized for all individuals: enslavery persisted, Indigenous peoples faced displacement, and women were denied fundamental rights.
Resignifying freedom today requires a collective effort to acknowledge the past, confront its injustices, and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society. It means recognizing that freedom is not a fixed concept, it is an ongoing pursuit, demanding constant vigilance and active participation. Resignifying freedom necessitates embracing the voices and experiences of all Americans, especially those whose stories have been silenced.
It is crucial to ask ourselves some questions: what does freedom truly mean? How can we collectively resignify it to ensure that it encompasses the experiences and struggles of all Americans, particularly those who have historically been marginalized?
As we come together to celebrate the 4th of July, let us not be content with surface-level festivities. Instead, let us use this occasion to reflect on the true meaning of freedom and collectively resignify it to encompass the experiences and struggles of all Americans. Resignifying freedom requires empathy, perspective, action, and a commitment to dismantling systemic inequalities.
Freedom must be expanded to achieve more than just political and legal rights. It must embody economic justice, equal access to education and healthcare, and the eradication of discrimination in all its forms. By actively working to eliminate discriminatory practices and policies, we can create a society that reflects the principles of dignity and liberty for all.
We will activate new “Founding People” willing to advance our national morals and practices.