How Independence Day Became So Culturally Divisive

For many of the American chirpers out there, today is a reminder of American freedom and a reason to celebrate the force for good that the United States has been throughout its nearly 250-year history.

There’s a growing segment of the population, however, that no longer wants to take part in patriotic displays.

The roots of a movement

About three years ago, much of the nation was embroiled in civil unrest and disunity stemming from the police shooting of George Floyd in Minneapolis. This even field the burgeoning Black Lives Matter movement, which in turn prompted many Americans of all races to take an uncomfortable look at the nation’s history of oppression and discrimination.

While America has unquestionably been a bastion of freedom and liberty for millions of people, it has been and still is far from perfect.

That’s why Americans like 18-year-old Malaya Tapp say they’re not inclined to celebrate the Fourth of July anymore.

She grew up on the parades and fireworks that are ubiquitous this time of year, recalling that it “was always such a fun holiday” with her family and friends.

Since becoming involved in Black Lives Matter, however, she said that she “lost a lot of [her] patriotic feelings.”

A complicated perspective

Of course, many people whose families have been historically marginalized in America don’t want to write off Independence Day altogether.

Seattle resident Isaac Norbe, for example, admits that it is “very challenging going into the Fourth of July” due to Supreme Court decisions with which he disagrees and other societal issues. Nevertheless, he’s committed to celebrating the holiday on his own terms.

“It’s actually called the Fourth of Jul-Isaac,” he explained. “It’s about celebrating your community and the community you create with the people around you.”

Chris Agee July 4th, 2023

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