By Ron Ulmer
At this time of summer, we all look forward to Independence Day or the Fourth of July Celebrations that include parades, picnics, and the best fireworks displays of the year. While all of the celebrating is enjoyable and brings communities closer together, my sincere wish is that all parents and grandparents have a discussion with their children and grandchildren regarding the meaning of the 4th of July. Please turn off all of your electronic devices, take time for your family to read the Declaration of Independence and discuss it over the long Independence Day weekend. Discuss the principles the colonists based their opposition to British rule on.
While I used to laugh at Jay Leno’s, “Jay Walking” or “Watters World” responses by people on the street to questions regarding simple United States history questions, now I question how long a diverse population can survive united when large numbers of people do not have a common understanding of the foundation upon which the United States is built. Questions such as, who was the first President, what are the founding principles, or what war did we fight against whom to gain our independence? Draw responses go from a blank stare to the ridiculous. Additionally, from the immigration debate, the growing number of discrimination claims of special interest groups, to the gun violence that we see all too often on the TV, one can easily conclude the United States is a terrible place in which to live.
As evidence to the contrary, The United States is the beacon to the world and the ultimate destination of those seeking a better life. The United States has attracted more immigrants than all the other countries in the world combined since World War II. Just reflect on that for a minute. More people have voted with their feet, many risking their lives and their family’s lives to come to the United States than all the other countries in the World combined. Have you ever wondered why immigrants do not regularly risk their lives to get into Cuba, Mexico, Russia, China, or why wealthy Saudi Arabia does not allow any refugees from the war torn Mid-East?
While the United States is not perfect, take time this Fourth of July to be thankful for all the blessings you have by living in the freest and most desired country in which to live in the World.
Ron Ulmer is an economist, have taught economics/finance at 3 central Illinois universities and employed by Illinois Power as a Senior Rate Analyst, supervisor of economic research, Market Program Manager. Now retired, Current member Normal Kiwanis, past 25 year member Optimist International Service Club, Property owner and manager in Normal for 37 years ongoing.
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