Reflecting on celebrating our nation’s independence, the question comes to mind: are we truly free? With the Charleston shootings, burning of black churches in mind, and ignorant comments by celebrity personalities like Donald Trump, we sadly have to come to the conclusion that there is not liberty and justice for all.
But this unrest and ignorance is not anything recent. It has been going on for generations. What has changed is that now the media and more people are becoming aware of this unrest and injustices unlike before. Let us now move forward as Muslims, Christians and Jews; as Blacks, Whites, Hispanics, and Asians; as Americans. Let us now acknowledge the wrongdoings of our past and fight to promote freedom for all not only for the future, but for today. Let us carry on our beautiful values that were declared over 200 years ago in our Declaration of Independence and enjoy our right to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness.
Saira Bhatti
Centreville