Commemorating Freedom

June and July celebrate freedom. Last month the United States celebrated freedom for two groups: LGBTQ+ and African Americans. LGBTQ+ pride month commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan which was a pivotal turning point in the Gay Liberation Movement. In 2021, Juneteenth was declared a national holiday to mark the anniversary of the announcement made by Gordon Granger, a Union Army general, that proclaimed freedom for enslaved African Americans on June 19, 1865.

This month the United States will celebrate Independence Day (Fourth of July) to remember when the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence that separated the thirteen colonies from Great Britain. This adoption signified that America was a nation free from the restrictions placed by the British monarchy. This year’s Fourth of July celebration may not have the same celebratory tone as in previous years due to the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022. Roe v. Wade protected reproductive rights for women. Protests are expected in many states during the Fourth of July weekend and the hashtag #Cancel4thOfJuly is being seen on social media platforms.

What can you do to advocate for freedom?

1.       Support (volunteer, donate, etc.) organizations that work to protect freedom.

2.       Educate yourself and your family on your rights.

3.       Vote for your ideal candidate in local, state, and federal elections.

4.       Hold your elected officials accountable by either calling, emailing, or sending letters regarding issues you want them to act on.