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Our nation was founded on a simple idea: We’re all created equal. We’ve never lived up to it — but we’ve never stopped trying. This Independence Day, let’s not just celebrate those words, let’s commit to finally fulfill them. Happy #FourthOfJuly! pic.twitter.com/1WrATlx8Xl
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) July 4, 2020
Happy #4thofJuly! While celebrations this year will look a little different, I hope that you are able to safely enjoy our nations’ birthday. Today is a day to remember the ideals and values we hold, while striving to make this a truly free and equal nation for all. pic.twitter.com/8zu8GL0RiV
— Eileen Filler-Corn (@EFillerCorn) July 4, 2020
As we celebrate Independence Day, let us also remember that on this day 244 years ago, not all in America were free. We’re still working towards that North Star of true equality in our country. This Fourth of July, let’s keep that work going—and however you celebrate, stay safe.
— Tim Kaine (@timkaine) July 4, 2020
Spanberger Statement Ahead of Independence Day
HENRICO, V.A. – U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger today issued the following statement to mark the Fourth of July.
“Tomorrow, communities across America will celebrate the birth of our republic. This year’s celebrations across Central Virginia may be altered by the ongoing threat to public health, but Independence Day still provides an opportunity to reflect on the ideals that brought our nation together and the courage that has kept it together for 244 years. Over the centuries, countless Americans have stepped beyond the duties of their daily lives to answer a higher obligation. Whether by serving in uniform overseas or advocating for justice, liberty, and equality at home, the fearless work of these citizens has preserved our freedom and brought us closer to the realization of the promises made at our founding. Today, we’re reminded that patriotism goes beyond banners and barbecues – it’s about a ceaseless, energetic pursuit of a stronger future and a safer world for generations of Americans to come. As we each reflect on how we can contribute to that work, I’d like to wish everyone in Virginia’s 7th District a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July.”
Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-VA10)
One year ago, I was in a flurry of activity across our district. I kicked off my morning in Great Falls at the Little Patriot Parade, made it to Leesburg in time for their parade, and finished up with some great food and company at the Algonkian District Democrats Picnic. This year will be a little different.
But wherever you are, and however you choose to (safely) celebrate Independence Day, I know you’ll join me in remembering the risks and sacrifices that the signers of the Declaration of Independence made so long ago.
All across Virginia and the thirteen colonies, people stepped up and began the long path down which America took its first steps — steps towards those unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Since our nation’s founding, we have inched ever closer to the realization of those ideals. Through a war between the states, two wars that spanned the world, marches and protests for the rights of everyone, not just white men with money and power, our America has come closer and closer to accepting everyone.
This year, remember with me how far we’ve come, how much farther we have to go, and honor the memories of those revolutionaries long ago who set the fuse on the American Dream.
Thank you — and stay safe,
Jennifer
I hope your July Fourth weekend is pleasant, healthy, and safe. Happy Independence Day!
— Rep. Don Beyer (@RepDonBeyer) July 4, 2020
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Growing up, the Fourth of July was always one of my favorite days of the year. It was the food, the family, and the fireworks. It was how my mom always made sure my siblings and I wore some combination of red, white, and blue. For that day in particular, it felt like every single person in America had something to celebrate. I was always drawn to powerful prose, and I remember how proud I was when I memorized the preamble to the Declaration of Independence the summer after fourth grade. I knew then that there was a particular importance to the capitalized letters: like “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” I could tell that Thomas Jefferson and the Committee of Five were signaling to posterity the most important values that would define this new Government. Every year, on the Fourth of July, I find some reason to go back to that document—back to that Declaration—to see what new insights it will bring. This morning, in the context of all of the unrest and challenges facing our nation right now, one line stood out in particular: “…and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.” It is the uncertainty that stands out to me—the idea of a Government “most likely” to deliver on their vision. But also, I appreciate the prescience of these men to recognize a critical Right of the People to organize the nation in the way that best serves Safety and Happiness—again, capitalized for their emphasis. The past few weeks and months have reminded us of so many things about America. They remind us that there is an ongoing struggle for racial justice. That women’s reproductive rights are still being litigated. That we have to fight to ensure that the immigration story that defined America remains a source of our strength. That the best way to ensure Safety and Happiness for everyone in this country is to lean into the diversity of identities, insights, and experiences that make our country unique. So, today, the Fourth of July is still one of my favorite days of the year. I still wear some combination of red, white, and blue, and my kids do as well. We enjoy food, family, and fireworks. And I think about what it means to do my part in pressing our country forward to the vision of 244 years ago. Wishing you and your family a safe weekend and a Happy Fourth of July! Cameron |
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