Today is the 4th of July and never have I really questioned whether or not I was going to celebrate this holiday before but I am today. This year I could care less about waving a flag or looking at fireworks because our country is not free we are bound. 
We’re distracted by poor leadership, we’re hurting from the countless injustices men, women, and children are suffering each day, and we have so many neglected community issues. Are we really free? Are our people truly liberated? I don’t think so. 

I’m concerned because there are so many ignorant individuals who are celebrating BBQs with new weaves and nails and linen outfits and don’t fully understand what we’re celebrating. As an African American woman I would be remiss if I didn’t address what this means to be. The history of my people and the current oppression of my people leaves much to be freed from. 

Instead of standing over a grill I’m going to stand over my notebook with my pen and draft more ideas to bring to my local community, review an outline for my next book for youth, and find more places to speak. Yes I’ll eat but I won’t be lacking because I didn’t have corn on the cobb but I will be empowered for the push forward. 

We’ve got to take the action necessary to continue to push our country forward, our communities forward, and the people we call friends and family forward. Look for your opportunity today while you’re celebrating to strike conversation. It’s through asking questions that we really can get answers and form opinions. Use the tools you have in front of you to create the change you want to see. It may seem like such a small step but a step forward is progress. Be progressive! 

May God bless America. I’ll continue to pray for my country, my local community and its leaders. What will you be doing?