Declaring America’s Independence: An Ongoing Pursuit
Declaring America’s Independence: An Ongoing Pursuit
As we mark the country's Independence Day we offer reverence to America's founders who risked their lives - and those of their families - their fortunes, and their sacred honor. We remember the brave men and women who risked everything and told a powerful authority that their individual liberties (rightfully) took supremacy over the economic gains to be had by a colonial superpower. On a day like today it is easy to look back and think about where America has been, remembering the names, faces, and key phrases that often evoke patriotic sentiment.
But the larger tasks for a day like today are to think about the legacy of these leaders, and what we are doing to preserve and extend that vision. Certain words, promises, and principles may be written into our country’s Declaration of Independence and Constitution, but they mean little if they are not defended.
America's independence is not just about making sure that we remain a politically-sovereign nation. The battle is larger than securing ourselves from the hand of another nation.
First, our independence relies heavily on making sure the Constitutional framework that has sustained our republic remains intact. America's unique system of checks and balances has provided much of our success and has prevented many bad policy proposals from becoming law. But, when one branch becomes too powerful, more reckless decisions come from Washington. The line between who makes the laws and who enforces them is becoming increasingly blurred, making it more difficult for citizens to hold accountable the lawmakers who enact such decisions.
Second, our independence depends on making sure that Americans are able to exercise their liberties and freedoms and without any government-imposed "guidance." No matter how well-intentioned some federal programs may be, many represent the heavy hand of government in what should be the decision-making processes of individuals and businesses. The wisdom and ingenuity of the American people needs to be respected and trusted rather than disregarded and usurped.
Finally, our independence also depends on making sure that the U.S. is an economically-sovereign nation. In a matter of weeks, the House and the Senate will be asked to take out another loan, with the backing of at least one foreign nation as a creditor. Taking on trillions more in debt that our children and grandchildren will have to pay to another country not only threatens our economic well-being, but also our economic freedom.
It is in the defense of our framework of government, the exercise of liberties and freedom, and the pursuit of economic sovereignty and prosperity that America can protect and further safeguard her greatness. As we have relied on the efforts of previous generations to defend our opportunity to enjoy American greatness, so too must we for the next generation. After all, Independence is not just a day, but a constant pursuit.
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