The True Meaning of Independence Day
Dear Team TransCor,
This Fourth of July, Americans around the world will celebrate our country's Independence Day. Like many of you, I plan to spend time with family and friends celebrating and reflecting on what it means to be an American.
As much as we each enjoy the traditions, Independence Day is, most of all, an opportunity to reflect on the true meaning of our citizenship. Our Founding Fathers' vision of a free nation was memorialized in 1776 in the Declaration of Independence. They believed all people have certain inalienable rights - the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. These rights are the foundation of our country's existence, and today more than ever we must hold them dear. The Declaration of Independence makes clear: To be an American is about much more than the place we call home. Being an American expresses a deeply felt commitment to higher principles: liberty, equality, opportunity, and self-governance.
Today, 244 years later, as we sadly witness the recent civil unrest across the country, it would appear that as a nation we may have fallen short on the commitment to those certain inalienable rights and higher principles of commitment. I personally believe, as a society, we must first recognize and endeavor to understand the deep pain and strong sense of social inequality that exists. As citizens and neighbors, I pray we will begin to move toward healing by together addressing the measured differences of equality and collectively striving to end racism and injustice — for all.
As we celebrate our nation’s independence later this week, I'm reminded once again of the riveting words of former President Ronald Reagan, "Freedom is a fragile thing and is never more than one generation away from extinction. It is not ours by inheritance; it must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation." I add my own voice of thankfulness and gratitude to those who fought defending our freedom and this great nation of opportunity, promise and hope.
On behalf of the entire Leadership Team, I wish you and your loved ones a safe and relaxing holiday weekend. Happy Fourth of July!
Sincerely,
Curt Sullivan
President, TransCor America