Reclaiming the Fourth of July: An Ancestor’s Perspective on Freedom and Justice
As the Fourth of July dawns upon us once again, it arrives against the backdrop of a nation grappling with the echoes of its past and the challenges of the present. Recent Supreme Court decisions, such as the reversal of regulations like Affirmative Action in College Admissions and the landmark Dobbs decision, have reignited debates surrounding equality, justice, and the enduring struggle for civil rights. In this context, it becomes crucial to revisit the Fourth of July from the perspective of an ancestor of slaves, shedding light on the historical injustices and reminding ourselves of the unfinished work that lies ahead.
From the perspective of an ancestor of slaves, the Fourth of July holds a different meaning, a complex mix of emotions, and a painful reminder of a history marred by oppression and the unfulfilled promises of freedom. As I reflect upon this day, I can’t help but echo the sentiments expressed by the great Frederick Douglass, who posed the crucial question, “What to the slave is the Fourth of July?”
Born into the chains of slavery, my ancestors endured unfathomable hardships, their lives stripped of dignity and liberty. For them, this day represented the stark contrast between the soaring ideals of liberty, justice, and independence, and their own reality of bondage, suffering, and subjugation. The Fourth of July was a festivity that exposed the vast gulf between the lofty principles championed by the Founding Fathers and the dehumanizing conditions endured by enslaved African Americans.
While the Declaration of Independence proclaimed that “all men are created equal” and possess inalienable rights, my ancestors knew all too well that these words did not extend to them. They witnessed their own humanity diminished, their bodies treated as property, and their labor exploited for the prosperity of others. The irony of celebrating a nation’s independence while being denied one’s own freedom was a cruel reminder of their status as mere property, devoid of agency and personhood.
The Fourth of July festivities, with their patriotic speeches, jubilant parades, and resounding fireworks, served as a stark contrast to the grim reality experienced by enslaved individuals. It amplified the disconnect between the ideals of a nation and the harsh truth of their daily existence. It was a painful reminder that the freedoms celebrated did not extend to them or their descendants.
However, within the hearts of the enslaved, there flickered a glimmer of hope. They recognized the potential for change, and they dared to dream of a different future. The struggle for freedom was not confined to the pages of history; it coursed through the veins of my forebears, inspiring them to rise above their circumstances and fight for their own liberation.
Frederick Douglass himself, an emblematic figure in the fight against slavery, eloquently captured the essence of this struggle in his speech. He challenged the audience to confront the contradictions of a nation that championed liberty yet sanctioned the enslavement of fellow human beings. His words served as a rallying cry for justice, awakening the consciousness of a nation and inspiring future generations to continue the fight for equality.
Today, as I reflect upon the Fourth of July, I honor the resilience, bravery, and determination of my ancestors. I recognize the progress that has been made, the abolition of slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, and the ongoing pursuit of racial equality. However, I also acknowledge that the struggle for true liberation continues, as systemic injustices persist, and marginalized communities still face discrimination and inequality.
This day is a reminder to me and countless others that the work of justice is not yet complete. It serves as a call to action, urging us to challenge the status quo, to confront the disparities that plague our society, and to strive for a future where the ideals enshrined in the Declaration of Independence truly apply to all.
So, as I observe the Fourth of July, I do so with a critical eye, a hopeful heart, and a commitment to continuing the legacy of my ancestors. I remember their sacrifices, their unyielding spirit, and their unwavering belief in the possibility of a more just and inclusive society. And I strive to honor their memory by working towards a future where every individual can genuinely celebrate the Fourth of July, liberated and equal in the truest sense of the word.
Effenus Henderson
