Rethinking the 4th of July: Embracing Change in Our Festive Traditions

This is our second year choosing to not actively celebrate the 4th of July.

I want to open up about a topic that has been weighing on my heart for the second year in a row... and that is our family's decision to no longer celebrate the 4th of July in the traditional sense. It may come as a surprise to some, but I believe that in order to promote inclusivity, empathy, and understanding, we need to reassess the way we commemorate this historic holiday in light of the current culture of America.

For so many years the 4th of July was a day filled with patriotism, barbecues, and acknowledgment of the freedoms of our family. We joined the festivities, proudly donning red, white, and blue, and cherished the fireworks lighting up the night sky. But as we watch the undoing of the foundation of what America was built on, unravel, we began to question the underlying messages conveyed by this holiday.

I know America's history is not without its flaws, and while it is crucial that we acknowledge and learn from them, this country has consistently shown us these last couple of years that they don't care about freedom for ALL. We want our children to understand the full context of the events that shaped this nation, including the complexities surrounding independence. We cannot deny the struggles, injustices, and hardships faced by marginalized communities, women, and those that are LGBTQIA+ --  both historically and in the present day.

Rather than simply perpetuating a celebratory atmosphere on the 4th of July, we have chosen to redirect our focus toward reflection, education, and empathy. We engage in open conversations with our children, discussing the significance of this day, the historical context, and the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality. We have chosen to come together in meaningful ways instead of mindlessly participating in parades and cookouts, celebrating a country that has not protected me, our daughters, or our son.

Our society is grappling with deep-seated divisions and systemic injustices, and both Justin and I  believe that it is our responsibility as parents to foster a sense of inclusivity and understanding within our family and for our kids. By acknowledging the complexities of our nation's history and engaging in discussions about social issues, we aim to raise compassionate and empathetic individuals who can work towards building a better future. When you know better, you do better!

Our decision not to celebrate the 4th of July in a traditional manner may be met with criticism or confusion but we believe it is essential to evolve alongside our ever-changing society. We want to teach our children that patriotism goes beyond flag-waving and fireworks—it involves actively working towards a better nation for all. We encourage other families to reflect upon their own celebrations, examining the values and messages they wish to impart to their children. By fostering a culture of understanding and empathy, we can collectively strive for a more inclusive and harmonious society.

By reimagining the 4th of July, we hope to instill in our children a profound appreciation for the ideals upon which America was founded, while also acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead. We are actively choosing to celebrate the spirit of unity, justice, and progress, and working within our family unit to build a better tomorrow for generations to come.