By James B. Ewers Jr. Ed.D.
The cost of living is going up. Going to the store or getting gas has become painful. America is in an anguished and frustrated state.
The questions are many and the answers are few. There is much conjecture and concern in the United States of America now.
Yet despite these challenges, we celebrated another 4th of July holiday. We used that day as a day of thanksgiving. You see, we can’t take freedom for granted. Being in this country has its privileges. We don’t have to hide, nor do we have to take shelter.
Last week we celebrated this time-honored day in various ways. In some cities, there were 4th of July parades. It is widely recognized that Alameda, California has the longest parade. It is 3.3 miles long with over 150 entries and 2500 participants.
Let’s just say that you had to pack some snacks because you were out there for a while. I am sure that it was a fun time for family and friends. Another California city, Claremont celebrated July 4th with a pancake breakfast and a road race. I am sure a good time was had by everybody.
Fireworks are also a traditional part of July 4th festivities. Cities across America like Washington DC, Boston, Massachusetts and Chicago, Illinois had grand fireworks displays. Children love to see the sky light up at night. That is a big treat for them. The record shows that Philadelphia, Pennsylvania started the July 4th fireworks celebrations.
Traveling by car is always a preferred mode of transportation for many of us. According to the American Automobile Association, thousands of motorists took to the highways to celebrate with loved ones.
Now, it couldn’t be the 4th of July without backyard barbeques with hot dogs and hamburgers. Don’t forget the ribs and chicken. These foods went well with the assortment of side dishes that we had. Food, folks and fun happened on that day.
Shopping was also a big hit in some households. Sales were featured in many stores and online, too. We all know people who will stand in line or get to a computer for a good sale. The operative phrase is that you are saving money and who doesn’t want to save money?
The July 4th holiday is draped in celebration and commemoration. It showcases America’s greatness and grandeur. It is like no other patriotic holiday. It stands alone and is without equal.
This holiday also gave us a respite from what is happening in America today. Regardless of your walk in life, we are in a position of fear and trepidation. Whatever your political bearing is, you are wondering what the future might hold.
If you are a Washington DC politician and you voted for the bill proposed by the administration, how are you feeling? Your public persona may be one of joy, however what is your gut telling you? That is the question.
When those legislators return to their home states, what will their message be? What will they tell their constituents when they are asked about their healthcare? What will their answer be when asked about food insecurity programs that were cut? Will there be an acceptable answer when asked about summer programs for children and why they were cut?
The bill signed on July 4th has in it a significant increase for immigration. Reports say there will be an additional 10,000 new positions for ICE. We will see how that increase will affect the current landscape.
Whether you like this bill or not, it will be implemented. One survey says that 54% of Americans do not like this bill. Critics say that the administration has gone too far. We will see in the coming months the effects of this new legislation. Freedom of speech and freedom of assembly are being watched closely by civil liberties pundits. Be vigilant and be careful as these are interesting times.
Dr. James B. Ewers Jr. Ed.D. is a longtime educator who hails from Winston Salem, N.C. Ewers is a life member of the NAACP and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. He is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists.
