Celebrating July 4, 2024
An essay by EIHS Chairman Nasser J. Kazeminy celebrating the Fourth of July and it’s significance to all citizens.
The Fourth of July is a celebration that goes beyond fireworks, barbecues, and parades. It’s a day when we come together to honor the ideals of liberty, equality, and democracy upon which our great nation was founded. For me, and so many others, this day also holds a special significance as it highlights the immigrant experience, which is so deeply woven into the fabric of America.
America’s story is, in many ways, the story of immigrants. From the early settlers seeking freedom and opportunity to the millions who have followed, each wave of immigrants has shaped and enriched our nation. These brave individuals brought with them unique cultures, traditions, and perspectives that have melded into the vibrant mosaic of American society.
When the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776, it spoke of a vision where all people are created equal and endowed with unalienable rights. This vision resonated globally, inspiring countless people to journey to America in search of a better life. The American Dream has driven generations of immigrants to contribute to our country’s economic, cultural, and social development.
I think of Emma Lazarus’s poem “The New Colossus,” forever emblazoned on the Statue of Liberty, and its famous lines, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” These words capture what America means to so many: a beacon of hope and opportunity. This sentiment remains powerful, reminding us of our nation’s commitment to welcoming those seeking a new beginning.
Immigrants have played a crucial role in shaping America’s history. They have built railroads, pioneered industries, and advanced technology. They have enriched our arts, sciences, and humanities, and served with distinction in our military, defending the freedoms we celebrate today. The diversity brought by immigrants fuels the dynamism and resilience of the American spirit, and enhances the collective prosperity and cultural richness of our nation.
The Fourth of July is not just a celebration of our past; it’s a reaffirmation of the values that define our future—a future bright and promising, thanks to the new ideas and perspectives immigrants bring.
This year let us remember the courage, determination, and resilience of those who have journeyed from distant lands to become part of this great nation. Their experiences and contributions remind us that the pursuit of liberty and justice is ongoing, enriched by the diversity and strength of all who call America home.
— Chairman Nasser J. Kazeminy
July 4, 2024
