Celebrate Our Unsung Heroes this July 4th
Every 4th of July we celebrate the freedoms we hold dear and honor those who gave so much of themselves to protect the American way of life. In 2021, the celebration continues, and considering this extraordinary year, we think it’s important to show our thanks to those who have helped us all survive the last 14 months.
EIHS always encourages unity and the communal spirit of patriotism, diversity, and freedom among all citizens. We all were affected by the pandemic and we all did our part to mitigate the dangers and protect one another. Of course, we have shown our love for the many frontline workers who cared for our sick family members; delivered our groceries, mail, and countless online purchases; and ensured essential services like utilities and public transit were kept running. What was surprising and worth recognizing, though, is that more often than not, these frontline workers were from marginalized communities. According to the Center for Economic and Policy Research based in Washington D.C., the demographic for these workers include 41% people of color, 64% women, and 17% immigrants. In a time of great crisis, these courageous Americans risked themselves to support their fellow citizens with contributions ranging from life-saving surgeries to keeping our stores stocked and open. That they did so in the face of social oppression only makes their generosity of the heart all the more powerful.
The need to support and laud these communities is even more crucial as so many were simultaneously experiencing discrimination, an issue most clearly brought to light by the Black Lives Matter Movement and the rise in hate crimes and xenophobia against Asian Americans brought about by the COVID-19 virus. Even while enduring oppression, these essential workers demonstrated the true spirit of America, the act of putting aside one’s physical, spiritual, or political differences, pulling together, and focusing on the greater good.
Inspired by the true patriotism of these frontline heroes, EIHS encourages all of us to use this moment as an opportunity to “reset” our nation. Let’s work to bring back the civility and unity which once led our forebears to leave behind all they had ever known and forge a new nation with strangers from around the world. We all want to return to ‘normal,’ but we want a normal that better reflects our diversity and provides true equality for all.
We encourage you to see the reopening as a chance to reach out a hand in thanks and support of those who kept this great nation going during one of the worst crises in its history. So many people of color, women, and immigrant frontline workers brought us through this battle for our lives, and they deserve our support in their fight for equity and a chance at the American dream we all hold so dear. This 4th of July, let us celebrate the sacrifices of our American brothers and sisters and unite to ensure that all citizens can enjoy the freedoms and opportunities the United States has to offer.
