What the Fourth of July Means in 2026: Reflections on Independence, Service, and Our Shared Story

The Fourth of July is almost here, and the country is getting ready for another round of fireworks, backyard BBQs, and family gatherings. For most Americans, it’s a day to celebrate our independence, to remember July 4, 1776, when the Declaration of Independence officially set the United States on its path as a nation. Everywhere you look, there’s red, white, and blue—reminders of the freedoms and ideals that shaped this country.

But the story of the United States isn’t simple, and neither is the meaning of Independence Day. Every year, as we celebrate, there are voices—thoughtful, necessary voices—reminding us that this land has a much longer history. Some call it stolen, and they’re not wrong to raise hard questions about what was lost, what was taken, and what’s been promised but not always delivered.

Take treaty rights, for example. Some Indigenous nations, like the Cherokee Nation, have pushed for representation in Congress based on treaties signed as far back as 1835. The idea of a non-voting delegate for Native nations is still just that—an idea, not yet reality. Native voices in government remain rare, though they’re growing: Deb Haaland, from the Laguna Pueblo, serves as Secretary of the Interior, and Charles Curtis, of the Kaw Nation, was both a U.S. Senator and Vice President. Organizations like the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) have been working since 1944 to make sure tribal interests are heard.

The federal government, for its part, has a unique legal relationship with 573 sovereign Tribal nations. That means a responsibility to provide health care, education, law enforcement, and more—a responsibility that’s been unevenly fulfilled. There’s been progress, but there’s still a lot of work left to do.

Just this week, Congress debated the SAVE America Act—some supported it, while others, like Congresswoman Betty McCollum, voted no. The conversation about how best to honor our commitments to Native people isn’t over, and every November, Native American Heritage Month reminds us to celebrate the cultures and resilience of the First Americans.

I think about all of this as someone who’s served in the military. I’m a U.S. veteran. My service wasn’t always easy, and it wasn’t always celebrated, but I did it with pride. I want my country to live up to its promises—not just for me, but for everyone who calls this place home.

So as we celebrate this Fourth of July, let’s remember what makes this country great isn’t just the fireworks or parades. It’s the ongoing effort to build a more just, inclusive, and free society. We’re not perfect, but we’re still here, and we’re still trying. Happy Fourth of July.

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