If American politics makes you mad right now, you’re not the only one. If American society makes you feel a little sad right now, you have every right to be sad. If you find yourself hating on America more than you have in a while, you’re most definitely not alone.
It feels like we say the words “America is more divided than ever” all too often. Honestly, America has always been pretty divided, just in different ways for different eras.
Hailey Stewart | Argonaut
But, with an influx of social media usage and opinions flying in every direction, it does seem like we are more divided than ever. And maybe we are. But, at the very least, we notice it more because we are always bombarded with disagreements and negativity.
It’s hard to like America right now. Fireworks, parades and hot dogs aren’t going to fix that. But, Independence Day is still worth celebrating.
The Fourth of July must mean something slightly different to everyone. The day isn’t for just Republicans or Democrats. It’s not for one race or another. It’s not even just for Americans.
Put plainly, the day is meant to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the countless people who kept the country going for so long.
There is no right way to spend the day, but there are some ways to make the day feel a little more patriotic than it has over the past few months.
It may sound less than appealing to celebrate a country that outwardly seems distraught. Still, we can use the holiday to our benefit and the betterment of others — to reminisce and maybe instill some hope in the future. There are ways to feel a little less disappointed in the country, even for just a day.
Vote, vote, vote
Chances are, you’ll go to an Independence Day party. While you’re there, let your friends know the easiest ways to register to vote. Often, even the most seemingly involved people don’t exactly know if they are registered to vote or if they registered correctly. Unless a presidential election just happened, many people forget you can register to vote any time. TurboVote and state websites can help you get registered quickly and efficiently. It might not seem normal to whip out your smartphone and register voters on the spot, but at least you have started the conversation.
A day sans barbecue
Not really in the mood to spend a whole day barbecuing? There are plenty of ways to spend the day off other than eating, drinking and parading. If you’re looking to do a little good, start within your community for volunteer opportunities.
There are hundreds of protests taking place around the country. If any of them align with your views, spend some time with those feeling the same or spend a moment donating to the cause.
If not today, then take the time to plan out your next volunteer slots throughout the year.
Knowledge is power
Democracy is useless without freedom of information. If you’re looking to spend the day inside in front of the TV or reading, turn your attention to the news.
It’s important to learn from a well-rounded grouping of news. Even if you have a favorite, use the day to watch something else than your usual news station or read the same paper.
Invest in your local and national news. Read up on what matters most to you and form your opinions for the ballot box in an accurate way.
Feel good patriotism
A day of celebration is meant for actually celebrating. If you’re the one hosting a party plan with positivity in mind. Not everything has to be about red, white and blue.
When preparing for your party, attempt to buy locally and from small businesses.
Help guests understand all the nuances of the country’s past and present by catching up on the history of America — just because it’s a holiday doesn’t mean we have to leave all the negative details out. Celebrate America’s culture by celebrating all cultures.
Yes, there is an overabundance of negativity swirling around, and one day won’t fix it. But, it can put some negativity into perspective for a positive holiday.
Hailey Stewart can be reached at [email protected]