Once a year, many countries around the world celebrate their independence. It's the one day when an entire country celebrates a victory over a colonial power or an oppressive leader/political regime. Now I think the idea of independence, and a country having power to self-rule/govern is quite powerful, however at the same time what may look like a day to celebrate freedom to some, is also a day of celebrating the oppression of others. The US context and my own experience are what I know best, so I'll only speak on behalf of what I know. When I think of American Independence, I think of an unequal and unfinished fight for freedom and equality. Sure, the US is a sovereign nation, and yes, it's given many people the opportunity to thrive and succeed, but it has ultimately left more behind than it has pushed forward. People in marginalized groups have not only built an entire nation on their backs, but they've also had to work many times harder than those in the majority, and their fight for basic rights and acceptance has not ended. So, in my opinion, celebrating American independence is also celebrating colonization and the long history of bigotry that has been on the rise in the US since 1492.
Now let me tell you a little bit of my story....
I'm the proud daughter of immigrants who came to the United States in the 80s from India to pursue higher education. Because of their decision to immigrate, I've been lucky enough to have some incredible opportunities growing up the US, and I'm forever grateful. My parents have also benefited a lot from their decision to immigrate, and while their story is one of a lot of hard work and sacrifice, it is in the end, one of success. Now living as people of color in the United States, both myself, my parents, and other members of my family have experienced varying forms of discrimination. It's not like having some degree of success exempts you from dealing with systemic and institutionalized racism, nor does it stop you from being treated as "other". In the words of Amy Chua, “Do you know what a foreign accent is? It’s a sign of bravery.” ― Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother. Bravery in a system that was never designed to work in their favor, but nonetheless finding a place and a voice in a society and country that breathes white supremacy.
This 4th of July, while I may go and watch some fireworks, I will never celebrate the ongoing oppression of millions of people. I will however, celebrate the progress that's been made, and continue to fight for change. Because the America I believe in, is one that acknowledges and apologizes for it's wrongdoings, but also acknowledges its problems, and takes the right steps to build a better society.
*Articles/Videos related to the topic of 4th of July:
7 ways black people still aren't free in America
Video: James Earl Jones Reads Frederick Douglass
Now let me tell you a little bit of my story....
I'm the proud daughter of immigrants who came to the United States in the 80s from India to pursue higher education. Because of their decision to immigrate, I've been lucky enough to have some incredible opportunities growing up the US, and I'm forever grateful. My parents have also benefited a lot from their decision to immigrate, and while their story is one of a lot of hard work and sacrifice, it is in the end, one of success. Now living as people of color in the United States, both myself, my parents, and other members of my family have experienced varying forms of discrimination. It's not like having some degree of success exempts you from dealing with systemic and institutionalized racism, nor does it stop you from being treated as "other". In the words of Amy Chua, “Do you know what a foreign accent is? It’s a sign of bravery.” ― Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother. Bravery in a system that was never designed to work in their favor, but nonetheless finding a place and a voice in a society and country that breathes white supremacy.
This 4th of July, while I may go and watch some fireworks, I will never celebrate the ongoing oppression of millions of people. I will however, celebrate the progress that's been made, and continue to fight for change. Because the America I believe in, is one that acknowledges and apologizes for it's wrongdoings, but also acknowledges its problems, and takes the right steps to build a better society.
*Articles/Videos related to the topic of 4th of July:
7 ways black people still aren't free in America
Video: James Earl Jones Reads Frederick Douglass
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