242 years ago, a trust was established by the founding fathers. In this trust is held our inheritance, one much like the hand-me-downs on the youngest child. This inheritance, therefore, is our responsibility to maintain until the next generation comes to wear it. This responsibility is America. When we look to see what responsibility we bear today though, we cannot look to the first Americans. All generations are bound, but each generation’s binds differ. That America, which struggled with slavery while sawing off the chains of English tyranny, is not ours. slavery is dust, monarchy a tourist trap. However, the America we celebrate this 4th of July is still imperfect. Without healthcare, who has life? Indefinitely detained, who has liberty? Where is the much-lauded pursuit of happiness? Our grim legacy stays with us. Even the dust of slavery has gathered to dust bunnies under the couch of our national psyche. As recent as June 30th the cops were called on Reggie Fields, a black 12-year-old who was mowing lawns, in a faint suburban echo of Tamir Rice’s death 4 years ago.
What legacy will we leave for those Americans coming 242 years from today? Our most progressive, forward-thinking policies. Our most progressive, forward thinking individuals. That is the hope. And there are intimations of this: Liuba Gretchen Shirley’s nomination in NY’s 2nd congressional district, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s nomination in NY’s 14th congressional district, and a slew of other victories documented on the progressive organization Our Revolutions’ website. We will give to tomorrow the chance to be born covered for life through universal healthcare, guaranteed permanent shelter free from crushing debts, grow up with the opportunity to attend a fully funded college or vocation training program, and grow old free to walk the protected landscape where the world is puddle-wonderful from liquidated ICE. In short, we will throw down more cut chains. Working to elect the next generation of candidates to represent the possibilities of today and the responsibilities to tomorrow laid upon us by our forefathers is the beginning.
But until July 4th, 2260 comes around, enjoy the fireworks tonight. Then, when the morning comes, work towards that world where no person is trapped in cages literal or figurative. Where all people can watch those celebratory bombs bursting in air. Where there is no doubt that America is the land of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
