In a nation as large and diverse as the United States, it is often easier to see the differences between Americans – geographic, religious, ethnic and political – than our common bonds. In such divisive times, it is especially important that we pause on Independence Day to remind ourselves what binds us together – a commitment to freedom.
American freedoms encompass everything from free and fair democratic elections to the freedom to choose your own religion, to the ability to freely and publically criticize our government. Since our country’s founding, brave men and women have preserved the freedoms we hold dear. Soldiers have fought and died for this country, and I believe Independence Day is an important time to remember that freedom has not been easily won.
Americans can appreciate the bold step our founding fathers took more than two centuries ago when they declared their independence and began building a country committed to freedom and democracy. Each one of us is blessed to live in a country where we enjoy so many rights and liberties, and it is our duty to continue to preserve and strengthen these freedoms for future generations of Americans.
I hope everyone has a safe and festive Independence Day, and I encourage you all to reflect on and be grateful for our country and our freedoms.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns at any time. We look forward to hearing your comments and suggestions, and will try to answer any questions you may have. You can reach us by phone at 573-751-1464, or e-mail at will.kraus@senate.mo.gov.
Senator Will Kraus serves Eastern Jackson County in the 8th State Senatorial District.