It seems a bit daft to celebrate our country's freedom when more than half of its populace was recently stripped of their own fundamental and constitutional right of bodily autonomy. How can we celebrate a country's "freedom" when not all of its citizens are truly free? I hope by now, especially in light of recent events, we can grasp the importance of making our voices heard through our vote. The saying "voting has consequences" couldn't be closer to the truth. Your vote is your voice in power. It's your constitutional right. Don't let anyone tell you it's not important or that it doesn't matter. Research the candidates running, their positions, and voting records. Make sure they align with your core values and that they will be the best representative for you and your needs. Vote in ALL elections; those small local and state elections are equally as important and, as you're seeing now, could be even more detrimental than ever before without your participation.
When Benjamin Franklin was asked after a session of the Constitutional Convention,
"What kind of a government have you given us?" he replied, "A democracy if you can keep it."
Our republic is founded on the principle that it will continue only as long as the people keep democracy alive.
I hope you enjoy this day with your friends and family. And truly reflect on the direction this country seems to be going in. This is not the time to wave the white flag and simply give up. Use your voice to maintain our constitutional rights and the freedoms so many before us fought for and even gave their lives for.