Independence Day: Reflecting on “Justice and Equality for All”

by Mikaela VanMoorleghem, MPA

As fireworks light up the sky and flags wave proudly, Independence Day invites us to reflect not only on the birth of our nation but also on the principles of “justice and equality for all.” These ideals, preserved in our founding documents, are the foundation of our democracy. Yet, in the pursuit of true freedom, we must continually ask ourselves: Are we living up to these promises?

“Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
Freedom, at its core, is the ability to live without oppression, to have one’s rights respected, and to have equal opportunities to succeed. Yet, freedom is often unevenly distributed. As we celebrate our nation’s independence, it’s necessary to remember that the struggle for freedom did not end in 1776. It continues today in various forms.

Frederick Douglass, in his famous speech “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” highlighted the contradictions of a nation celebrating liberty while enslaving millions: “This Fourth of July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn.” His words remind us that the fight for freedom and equality has been, and still is, a long and arduous journey.

Similarly, Susan B. Anthony, a key figure in the women’s suffrage movement, underscored the necessity of equal rights for women: “There never will be complete equality until women themselves help to make laws and elect lawmakers.” Her advocacy laid the groundwork for the eventual passage of the 19th Amendment, yet the quest for gender equality persists.

Nelson Mandela once said, “To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” Despite significant progress, many groups in the United States continue to face systemic discrimination. For instance, the racial wealth gap remains stark: according to a 2020 Federal Reserve report, the median wealth of white families was $188,200, compared to $24,100 for Black families and $36,100 for Hispanic families. Such disparities highlight ongoing economic and social injustices.

Thought-Provoking Questions
1. How can we ensure that the principles of “justice and equality for all” are upheld in our laws and policies?
2. What steps can we take to address the systemic inequalities that still exist in our society?
3. How do our individual actions contribute to or hinder the realization of true freedom for everyone?
4. What can we learn from historical figures who fought for justice and equality about how to address today’s challenges?

As we celebrate Independence Day, let’s commit to recognizing and valuing the diversity that makes our nation strong. True freedom and equality mean creating a society where every person, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status, has the opportunity to thrive.