Every year, as July 4th approaches, I find myself grappling with a mixture of emotions. As an African American, Independence Day is a complicated holiday. It has always been that way for me—even before I had the words to articulate why I felt conflicted. While it’s a time for celebrating freedom and the birth of a nation, it’s also a poignant reminder of the long struggle for equality and justice that continues to this day.

The Promise of Freedom

I’m no historian by any stretch of the imagination; I have other people in my circle who I look to who are skilled in that area. However, living in my skin, being in places and spaces where I am the only person of color, and remembering stories my parents and grandparents shared about growing up in South Carolina, all validate my feelings, in my opinion.

Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, a document that boldly proclaims the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These ideals are the foundation of the American Dream, a promise of freedom and opportunity. However, for many African Americans, the reality of this promise has been historically elusive.

A Legacy of Injustice

When the Declaration of Independence was signed, African Americans were enslaved, so the freedoms celebrated on July 4th were not extended to all. The legacy of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism casts a long shadow over the holiday. It is impossible to ignore the fact that while the nation celebrates its independence, our ancestors were still in chains, fighting for their basic human rights. Therefore, it feels a little strange to celebrate a day that did not include people who look like me.

Progress and Persistence

Despite these historical injustices, there is also a story of resilience and progress. The abolition of slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, and ongoing efforts to address racial inequality show the strength and determination of African Americans to claim their rightful place in the nation. Celebrating July 4th can also be seen as a recognition of these achievements and a commitment to continue striving for a more just and equal society.

I don’t recall learning in school about June 19, 1865, also known as Juneteenth, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in this country. I first learned about Juneteenth in 2012 when I was working in Washington, DC. Juneteenth has since become a federal holiday, but you might not be aware of it if you don’t take an interest in it.

Just two weeks ago, some companies offered a paid day off to their employees, some did not, while others offered their employees watermelon to “celebrate” the holiday. We’ve made progress by recognizing Independence Day for enslaved people, but we still have a long way to go to make meaningful progress and effect real change, rather than merely engaging in performative politics and office antics.

Mixed Emotions

Two years ago, I attended a July 4th celebration that felt like a mashup of Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and the 4th of July all in one; it was quite confusing. We have evolved into idolizing many things, including the country itself. We worship this country as if it were a god. While I understand being a proud citizen, it often appears that we go overboard with pride.

On the flip side, I do feel a sense of pride in the contributions that African Americans have made to this country. From building the nation’s infrastructure to shaping its culture, our impact is undeniable. Yet, this pride is tempered by the awareness of the struggles we still face. Recent years have highlighted that the fight for equality is far from over, with incidents of racial violence and discrimination reminding us that true independence remains an ongoing battle.

A Personal Reflection

For me, celebrating July 4th involves acknowledging this duality. It’s a time to honor the progress we’ve made and the sacrifices of those who came before us. It’s also a moment to reflect on the work that still needs to be done. I find solace in gathering with family and friends, sharing stories, and reinforcing the sense of community that has always been a source of strength for African Americans.

I recently returned from a solo trip to Montego Bay, Jamaica. During my stay, I had conversations with several locals that reminded me of how grateful and blessed I am to be here. Despite the ongoing battles we face in this country, I couldn’t imagine enduring the challenges that were discussed.

Moving Forward

As we move forward, it’s important to continue the conversation about what Independence Day means for all Americans. By recognizing the complexities of our history, we can strive to create a future where the ideals of freedom and equality are truly realized for everyone.

In the end, my feelings about July 4th are a testament to the rich, complicated history of African Americans in this country. It’s a reminder that our story is one of both pain and triumph, and that celebrating independence means continuing to fight for the freedom and justice that every person deserves.

As I write this, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the current atmosphere of uncertainty. With a presidential election just four months away and the recent Supreme Court ruling that presidents can be granted presumptive immunity from criminal prosecution, I pray that we can truly move forward. It is crucial that we don’t regress and undo the progress we’ve made, which would only complicate my feelings even more.