Two hundred and forty-five years ago, a year into the Revolutionary War, freedom from the crown of England was declared by the Continental Congress. Nearly two and a half centuries, and yet some in the past year would believe that the institutions many have fought and died for stand in their way. We are a divided nation, but one which has withstood many dark days and challenges domestic and foreign. On this 4th, let us all see ourselves not as right or left, D or R, but as Americans fortunate enough to live in a country which may be, in Thomas Jefferson’s words, an imperfect union, but a union which where change and perfection are within reach.

I was born on the 4th of July, so it has always been a special day for many reasons. Make this 4th a special day for all. Happy 4th!