freedom & equality for all

This year marks the 245th Independence Day of the United States of America. The story of America’s independence has more historical twists and turns than most of us realize or believe to be true.

Independence Day USA - July 4th

In the 1700s, America wasn’t really a nation of ‘united states.’ Instead, there were 13 colonies with distinct personalities. To this day Americans are so invested in their independence, it's the one major obstacle that gets in the way of a united nation with "liberty and justice for all." 

Independence Day Timeline

The threat of COVID-19 may have done more to bring us together and drop our differences than any thing has been able to achieve is way too long. American glory of the Red, White and Blue has brought as much divisive dissent as it brings unifying pride. 

The holiday is quieter and more somber for most - there's been too much loss and change for way too many. In addition to the pall cast over the country by the pandemic and other catastrophes, the west coast faces a heightened risk of wildfires after a scorching heat wave and extremely dry conditions.

Enjoyable as barbecues, parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and fireworks are - surely we can spend Independence Day more meaningfully. Our nation of consumers must now seriously deal with turning into a country of restorers and nurturers if it hopes to survive and thrive.

4th of July 2020 | what to celebrate

This year in the USofA our nation lies scattered and fragmented. We lead the world in pandemic infections [2,860,152 confirmed] and deaths [131,797 dead]. We are protesting in the streets for black lives matter, LGBTQ equality, women's rights, defund police, armed brutality, Donald Trump.

Primary mail in ballot

This fool on The Hill who is on Mount Rushmore today to celebrate Independence Day festivities with a rally for 7,500 people. With a flyover and the first fireworks display at the monument since 2009, when they were banned for their risk of igniting wildfires and damage to public health.

Way to go Donald. America is no longer a world leader under Trump. It is a failed nation airing its soiled underwear. There will be no happy celebration this Fourth of July. 

Our only hope to turn things around is to vote! Vote! VOTE! for someone else. 

Juneteenth Pride

June is Pride month and the LGBTQ community scored a long awaited win when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on June 15 that an employer who fires an individual for being gay or transgender violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Yes! Magazine opinion article

Finally, discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer individuals is now forbidden under federal law. It is our hope here at wonder | wander | world that this creates more inclusiveness and erases the ugly divisiveness that has been perpetuated all these years.

LGBTQ fight for civil rights explained [USA Today]

May the equality now covered by law extend beyond usefulness and usury into appreciation and gratitude for each human being taking pride in their declared or preferred choice.

Jessica Tully post on Facebook

We are all in this life and world together and we are each a valuable human being. It is time to honor each one with no discrimination and prejudice.

Our families just got a whole lot more connected. This is intersectional - we are all, all, all connected. #ancestors #blessus #gratitude