Americans honor the nation's birthday today at a difficult time, as we examine our identity and values at home, our obligations abroad and the expectations we have for the next generation. The sharp presidential campaign has amplified our differences, but if only for a day, the nation should remind itself of its tremendous achievements, of the inspiration it projects on the international stage and of the promise that such a strong democracy offers at a turbulent time.
The long wars in Afghanistan and Iraq are not entirely over. America will be responding to terror attacks for the foreseeable future. The nation's economic recovery is slow and uneven even with rosier employment and housing numbers, and the middle class is increasingly being marginalized toward the lower extremes. While the nation has moved ably this year to extend equal rights to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other minority groups, the march has been slow and often divisive. Britain's vote to exit the European Union, and the rise of similar populist angst here and abroad, poses a new and serious threat to global economic order, humanitarian relief and Western security.
Still, the forecast cannot look any more uncertain than when the Continental Congress, sitting in Philadelphia, approved the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This nation has seen many dark periods before. It has endured by refusing to wallow in the moment. Over its 240 years, America has faced crises both at home and abroad. Its people have grown stronger by acting collectively. The same American ideal that defeated fascism can also defeat racism, sexism and extremism. It's a matter of time, character and public will — three qualities the nation has deployed well over time.
That, in a lighthearted sense, is what draws children and adults like moths to fireworks on the Fourth. Hot dogs on the grill, the parades, the bunting and the marching bands — they all are colorful symbols of pride in a nation formed in the belief that all men are created equal. That concept was revolutionary in its day, and it still doesn't apply as universally as it should. But it at least still acts as a guide to the best in American thinking.
The Founding Fathers could not have conceived as the nation began the long arc of history that America would shape. But in this presidential year, it is worth remembering how this nation forged a truly different path. America opened its borders to the world, enriched itself with talent and diversity and tapped the dynamic forces of freedom and self-expression to create a society second to none.
That appreciation for what our forefathers started should be enough to get most Americans through the nasty campaign ads this year. America faces many challenges, but it has done more with less throughout history. Its electorate has the modern tools to be better informed than ever. And in this era of global conflict and economic anxiety, the United States stands as a force of reason. The nation has much to celebrate on this Fourth of July holiday — a day to recommit to maintaining the unrivaled role America has played in standing as a beacon of hope and ambition to the world.