Kathleen Quinn Votaw’s Post

The meaning behind the 4th of July is multifaceted: Declaration of Independence: The day marks the formal statement by the American colonies asserting their freedom and independence from British rule. It symbolizes the birth of the United States as an independent nation. Symbol of Freedom: Independence Day is a celebration of liberty, self-governance, and the principles of democracy that the United States was founded upon. It represents the ideals of freedom, equality, and justice. National Unity: It is a day that brings Americans together across diverse backgrounds to celebrate their shared heritage and values. It fosters a sense of national pride and unity. Patriotism and Reflection: The 4th of July encourages reflection on the history, sacrifices, and achievements that have shaped the nation. It is a time to honor those who have fought for and defended American freedoms. Traditions and Celebrations: Fireworks, parades, concerts, barbecues, and family gatherings are common ways Americans celebrate Independence Day. These traditions reinforce a sense of community and belonging. #backyardbbq #fireworks #rememberthosethatsacrificed

We can acknowledge and even celebrate the truth of our history together without dissension. Reality: On this day in 1865, two and a half years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, approximately 2000 Union troops arrived in Galveston and declared by executive decree that slaves were free. This order freed over 250,000 black people that were still enslaved in Texas. Why was it delayed? The Emancipation Proclamation could not be implemented in areas that were under Confederate control. Why do we acknowledge and celebrate this day? We acknowledge it because it happened. We celebrate it because the freedom of any person or people who was once unfairly held in bondage, abused and mistreated, should be celebrated. Though there was and still is in some places an uphill battle, freed slaves who survived faced many hardships and heartaches. Many searched for family members that they had been separated from hence the importance of reunions. They had to figure out the safe places where they could gain employment and settle. They were resilient during times when many would have given up and their resilience led to the progression of a people and progression a country. A call to action: No matter your race or ethnicity, don’t be afraid to acknowledge the hard truths of our past as well as the good. The important part is to work in unity today and not allow for the mistreatment and abuse of others to happen again. We should also ask ourselves how are we impacting the world so that it is a better place, not only for ourselves and our families, but for everyone. #JuneteenthMatters #TexasHistory #AmericanHistory #OurHistory #WeAreTheChange #StrongerTogether

I’d also like to to thank all of the brave people who gave their lives to obtain and keep our independence for the last 248 years. Original Declaration (link below to read all of it): WHEN in the Course of human Events, it becomes necessary for one People to dissolve the Political Bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the Powers of the Earth, the separate and equal Station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitle them, a decent Respect to the Opinions of Mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the Separation. We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness—-That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed, that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its Foundation on such Principles, and organizing its Powers in such Form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient Causes; and accordingly all Experience hath shewn, that Mankind are more disposed to suffer, while Evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the Forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long Train of Abuses and Usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object, evinces a Design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their Right, it is their Duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future Security. Such has been the patient Sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the Necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The History of the present King of Great-Britain is a History of repeated Injuries and Usurpations, all having in direct Object the Establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid World. He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public Good. He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing Importance, unless suspended in their Operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them. He has refused to pass other Laws for the Accommodation of large Districts of People, unless those People would relinquish the Right of Representation in the Legislature, a Right inestimable to them, and formidable to Tyrants only. Continue reading here: https://lnkd.in/eNbxeumW

Juneteenth, officially Juneteenth National Independence Day, is a federal holiday in the United States. It is celebrated annually on June 19 to commemorate the ending of slavery. The holiday's name is a portmanteau of the words "June" and "nineteenth", as it was on June 19, 1865, when Major General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas at the end of the American Civil War. Learn More at https://lnkd.in/gXi62WX #Juneteenth

As we observe Memorial Day, we are reminded of the profound sacrifices made by countless men and women in uniform who have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedoms. This day is not just a long weekend; it is a solemn tribute to the valor and dedication of our servicemembers who have paid the ultimate price for the values we hold dear. Their courage and commitment are at the heart of what many refer to as American Exceptionalism. This notion encompasses the idea that the United States, founded on principles of liberty, democracy, and equality, holds a unique place in history. It suggests that our country has a distinct role in advancing freedom and justice around the world. American Exceptionalism is not merely a boastful claim; it is a call to action. It compels us to uphold the ideals that our fallen heroes fought for, ensuring that their legacy lives on through our actions and policies. It challenges us to strive for excellence, to innovate, and to lead with integrity and compassion on the global stage. As we enjoy the freedoms and opportunities provided by living in this exceptional nation, let’s take a moment to honor those who made it possible. May we remember that the bedrock of our exceptionalism is built upon the sacrifices of those who served. #memorialday #armedforces #investing #insurance

Today, many people in the United States are celebrating this country's independence from monarchy. And yet we are not free. Not free from racism. Not free from patriarchy. Not free from warmongers. Not free from corporate greed. Not free from income inequality. Not free from exploitation. Not free from microplastics. Not free from police brutality. Not free from the prison-industrial complex. Not free from media companies that fan the flames of division so they can monetize our anger and fear. Not free from elected representatives who represent themselves more than the electorate. Not free from special interest groups, both here and abroad, that are actively subverting the foundational principles set forth in the Declaration of Independence, Constitution of the United States, and Bill of Rights. If we can ever achieve our independence from all those forces, not just a silly king, it will truly be a day of celebration. 🫶

Today, we honor Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in American history that marks the ending of slavery in the United States. As a law firm dedicated to justice and equality, we reflect on the ongoing journey towards civil rights and social equity. Let's use this day to remember the past, acknowledge the present, and commit to a future where liberty and justice are truly for all. https://lnkd.in/gPnkkt7k

Maybe two years ago while sitting at a rooftop in North Hills, a close friend with a different skintone than me looked around, and whispered in my ear, “North Hills is getting pretty dark, isn’t it?” I was confused. “Yeah the sun is going down, I guess it’s getting late.” He motioned with his eyes, and I realized maybe 50% of the classy rooftop guests had similar skintones to my own. I laughed it off, but it was the first insight I got into how (some) white people, being 60% of the nation’s population, oftentimes don’t feel comfortable in spaces with patrons of darker complexions. In 1865, people in Texas heard the news for the first time that they no longer had to be shackled. Today, Texas has the largest black population, but only at 14% compared to the 12% national average. During slavery, men, women, and children were chained, beaten, starved, and suffered horrible assaults and living conditions. They worked every day under the imprisonment of other families. The average slaved lived to only 21 years old, while the average white person lived twice as long to 40+ years old. Slaverly still continued illegally for a while after 1865. It was not that long ago. Slavery didn’t really end hundreds of years ago. It continued mentally. It is still relevant to how black and brown people whose ancestors were enslaved go about navigating this country. This affects our health, education, standard of living, job search, home-buying and overall income earning potential. There’s also the quiet and insidious bias others may have towards black men and women they don’t even recognize. If you observe this holiday, take inventory of your circle. How often do you interact with and celebrate black and brown men and women for their accomplishments? Do you acknowledge how challenging overcoming slavery must be, even today? Do you make an effort to learn more about cultures different than your own? Do you get uncomfortable if a black person drives a nice car, is at a nice restaurant, or moves into your neighborhood? Do you recognize that if a black American has achieved a high level of success, it may have been much harder to achieve based on our countries recent history of slavery? Today, assess your bias. Learn about your family’s history and the history of your friends. Maybe ask them how you can be a better friend surrounding the topic of race. Ignoring that these things are real and vastly affected Americans is hugely problematic- we must do better as a society and unified country. Black and brown people are resilient, forgiving, loving, intelligent, capable, innovative, and deserving of safe spaces to work, live, grow our families, and thrive! I hope that as time goes on, the small number of 14% of black people in this country grows, as we shed the limiting beliefs historically forced on us, and pursue better resources, education, and jobs.

Happy #Juneteenth, fellow #SocialWorkers! Let’s celebrate freedom, honor resilience, and renew our commitment to justice and equity for all. Together, we can make a difference. The CNN article has more information on the holiday's history and the flag. https://lnkd.in/g7KXtXBp

July 4th, also known as Independence Day in the United States, is to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776. This historic document, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, declared the thirteen American colonies' independence from British rule. Key aspects of the meaning of July 4th include: 1. Celebration of Freedom: It marks the birth of the United States as an independent nation and symbolizes its commitment to freedom, democracy, and self-governance. 2. Patriotism: The day is an opportunity for Americans to express their patriotism and pride in their country through various traditions, including fireworks, parades, and patriotic displays. 3. Reflection on History: It's a time to reflect on the struggles and sacrifices made by the founding fathers and others who fought for independence and the ideals of liberty and justice. 4. Unity and Community: Independence Day also serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and coming together as a community to celebrate shared values and heritage. 5. Cultural Significance: The holiday is deeply ingrained in American culture, with various customs and practices have evolved over the years, contributing to a sense of national identity. Overall, July 4th is a day to celebrate the historical significance of the Declaration of Independence and the principles upon which the United States was founded. #America #Independance #FoundingFathers #Sacrafices #GarySilverthornLeadership