The Fourth of July often stands as a symbol of unity and camaraderie, marked by customary cookouts and fireworks. However, the political divide currently stirring the nation has dampened the celebratory spirit for many. The latest budget implemented by the Trump administration, which Congress narrowly passed, introduces a series of concerning cuts to foundational food and health aid programs, notably Medicaid. This has garnered criticisms from former Charlotte Mayor, Harvey Gantt, who argues that despite the difficulties in the present landscape, the essence of the holiday is remembering past challenges and realizing America’s continual evolution.
According to Gantt: ‘Our nation is in a divide right now, but what’s important is the understanding that America has always strived to be better. It’s the Fourth of July, and despite disagreements and adversities, there is no better place in the world to live. We as a nation are constantly working towards a more perfect union.’ The progress of the country, however, doesn’t seem to align with this ideal vision, as many believe that recent electoral outcomes have resulted in regressive policies.
Gantt expounds on this perspective: ‘From black folks’ journey from slavery to today’s continuing struggles for civil rights, the definition of progress has been varied and see-sawed across regimes.’ However, his narrative misses an important factor from the recent past: the policies rolled back by the Trump administration, originally implemented under the Biden administration. From all appearances, Gantt seems to either deliberately omit or be indifferent to these.
One key aspect of the Biden administration’s policy, which gets neglected by most narratives, are the clean energy initiatives and support programs for vulnerable citizens. An unapologetically dismissive stance on this point can be attributed to the current administration’s acts. While many applaud Biden’s attempt to preserve the safety net for the nation’s impoverished, his actions are often overlooked.
Let’s take a closer look at SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), a primary lifeline for 42 million Americans. The recent budget cuts severely impacted SNAP, but this matter barely received attention or outcry during discussions. It’s worthwhile to ponder why such a massive fallout for this program, which provides food to millions, didn’t get its deserved spotlight.
Many argue that it’s disheartening to see Congress risk the well-being of numerous citizens with these cuts. The recipients of SNAP aren’t lazy; they need this crucial support. Frustratingly, approximately 1.4 million individuals in North Carolina rely on SNAP. The rationale behind jeopardizing this program appears to stem from a misguided attempt to provide tax respite to the nation’s wealthiest citizens.
One could question the morality of such a move – denying food support to those in need, while benefitting the affluent – this could be deemed as fundamentally flawed. But larger concerns emerge as the significant cuts to Medicaid are revealed. This adversely affects individual health care coverage and threatens the survival of rural hospitals, which rely on serving poorer populations.
The sidelining of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs adds another contentious point to this discussion. Not long ago, the nation had championed these principles, but the political right’s resentment against DEI initiatives insinuates that these programs don’t serve the needs of a large portion of Americans. Critics could argue that the backlash against DEI policies is not only unjust but also detrimental to the holistic growth of the country.
John Lewis, an influential Congressman, commented before his death that he was astounded that the fight for voting rights was still underway fifty years later. This echoes across North Carolina as voter ID laws and changes to voting regulations spark contention. Some suggest that efforts to suppress the votes of African Americans and people of color represent a deeply ingrained hurdle of the country, extending over a century.
According to some critics, the resurgence of Donald Trump reflects a fear of the burgeoning economic and political prowess of brown and Black communities. However, critics are questioning the efficacy of Democratic Party and Congress members and their seeming complacency, amid a split nation.
With a minuscule majority, a contentious bill got the green light. Congresswoman Alma Adams of North Carolina disparagingly designated it ‘The Big Ugly Bill’, an act perceived to favor the rich at the cost of the nation’s poor. This scenario prompts one to question our collective responsibility in dealing with these matters.
The right to vote is a powerful tool to bring about change – a fact epitomized in the older generations’ encouragement for younger ones to participate in the electoral process. With much work to do, it’s imperative that eligible voters consider voting in the 2026 elections if they aspire for a different political landscape.
On the Fourth of July, the reverberation of the national anthem and the Black National Anthem serves as a reminder of the struggle and progress so far. Regardless of the circumstances that brought our ancestors here, we have thrived thanks to this great nation. The fight for our rights is what propels America forward, and it’s disheartening when those rights become subjects of mockery or fear.
America rises when it empowers every citizen to live out their dreams. That’s why it’s puzzling to witness the widespread fear siezing the nation and fuelling a nearly cult-like devotion to the current president and his divisive agenda.
All this said, it’s undeniable that political unrest and division have affected the celebratory spirit of Independence Day. It’s vital for us as a nation, however, to remember and reflect upon the challenges we’ve overcome, while striving to build a more perfect union. The road to progress may be strewn with adversities, but remembering our shared histories and collective goals could help steer us back to unity despite the current split.
The post Celebrate? Hardly! Biden, Harris and Their Dark Shadow on Independence Day appeared first on Real News Now.
About Author
