Every July 4th I wonder why we do this. Why we stand on the sides of the streets, watching little children hold their arms out for candy, gazing at the police cars and fire trucks rolling by in tandem. Why we inhale the scent of grilling food, laughing with the people we hold close.
Why, I ask, do we participate in these joys on our "independence" day, acting blissfully ignorant of the tragedies happening around us? Have we forgotten about the 78 women who are forcibly raped each hour (Office for Victims of Crime)? Have we forgotten about the 64 countries where it is illegal to be part of the LGBTQIA+ community (BBC World News)?
Every July 4th, I think for probably less than a minute about the fact that maybe we shouldn't be celebrating on this day. Then, the glamour and glitz of fireworks and sparklers makes me forget all over again.
I hope somewhere, on July 4th, a kid like me is thinking the same thing. Another thirteen-year-old with visibly no power to do anything about this country and the terror that lurks in its past.
Every July 4th I wonder what we're celebrating. And then, just like everyone around me, I continue.
Posted in response to the challenge The Declaration of Independence.
Comments
Log in or register to post comments.