Happy Independence Day (4th of July) Bethunites! Ambivalence toward Independence Day, which commemorates the 1776 adoption of the Declaration of Independence (espousing liberty and equality while most blacks were enslaved), is nothing new for African Americans. The matter of black patriotism has likewise been debated through the years -- ranging from solemn, unquestioning reverence for the flag to an angry rejection of allegiance to a combination that affirms Americas best values and criticizes the nation where it falls short. See what the great Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune thought (todays Bethunism) as she described the complicated, yet strong and deep, relationship with African Americans and their country: [Black Americans] have always been loyal when the ideals of American democracy have been attacked. We have given our blood in its defense -- from Crispus Attucks on Boston Commons to the battlefields of France. We have fought for the democratic principles of equality under the law, equality of opportunity, equality at the ballot box, for the guarantees of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness ... Yes, we have fought for America with all her imperfections, not so much for what she is, but for what we know she can be. ~Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune #IndependenceDay #4thofJuly
Posted on: Fri, 04 Jul 2014 12:31:16 +0000