Fourth of July Reflections
Last week was the Fourth of July, and Patrick and I spent the day with our dear friend Carla (who seriously always brings out the best in me, I love that I can wholly be myself around her) at Knott’s Berry Farm. What started out as a cloudy morning gave way to sun before the night sky lit up with the sights and sounds of fireworks. Because of the overturning of Roe v. Wade last year, I couldn’t bring myself do anything for the Fourth last year, but this year I had the most perfect shirt to wear to express both patriotism and my distaste for current happenings. Oh, and yes, I’m wearing these ridiculous sunglasses over my glasses, because they are too fun.
For the last couple of years celebrating Independence Day has been rather difficult. Lately, many citizens in the United States have seen their rights stripped away, from the overturning of Roe v. Wade to the more recent changes that allow businesses to discriminate against LGBTQ+ folks, and the end of Affirmative Action at universities. How does one celebrate a country that has been actively working to harm its citizens?
While I have articulated much of what I’m about to say before, I think it’s important to say again, for new readers and to make it aware I still firmly believe certain things.
Those living in America on the eve of the Revolution were unhappy about their current government, and eventually their discontent led to a desire to change things and the creation of the Declaration of Independence on July Fourth. A thoughtful look of what can be, instead of a celebration of what is, is a perfect way to spend part of the holiday. It is a time to reflect on our current situation and see how we, like those who fought in the Revolution, can improve the land in which we live, and work towards making a more supportive, inclusive, and equal country. What would be more in line with Independence Day than to try and find ways to “form a perfect union”?
Intermixed with discussions and reflections I have included links to companies and groups Patrick and I have either supported or plan to. I don’t do this to try and toot my own horn, but perhaps give you security knowing I have had, or plant to have, an experience with them.
There is no history of America without understanding and acknowledging that there were many nations already established here by the Indigenous population. Sadly, there is still so much misunderstanding of and disrespect toward the Native American community. Including pipeline issues, and the impact of mascots that appropriate Native images, ideas, and continue to dehumanize Native Americans. The Native American Rights Fund is a place to gain a better understanding of the issues facing the communities, as well as a great place to donate. You can also support Indigenous groups directly by supporting Indigenous owned companies.
DJ is an amazing silversmith making stunning pieces of wearable art. I own a couple of pieces by him, and would love purchase more in the future. You can follow and buy from him via Instagram.
Manitobah moccasins are super cute, while I have yet to buy a pair, Patrick recently bought some. I especially adore Pony Hair pair.
Adopt-a-Native Elder is a great program showcasing the creative works done by elders of the Native American community. We have made purchases from them before.
Eighth Generation is a brand offering incredible blankets, jewelry, prints, and more. I have yet to buy from them, but I’ve been tempted by their socks and towels lately.
B. Yellowtail creates beautiful and colorful garments, accessories and more. I keep eyeing the scarves, but haven’t hit the “buy” button yet.
Ginew Inc. makes great casual wear as well as accessories. I’ve been contemplating some of their beaded bracelets.
Prados is a Native owned make-up brand, and I really want to grab one of their eyeshadow palettes next time I need some new make-up.
You can also support the Indigenous community by following accounts on Instagram that work towards education. Below you’ll find two that I follow.
Today, many conservatives will say the biggest threats to American children are drag queens, books, and critical race theory; and most of them have probably never been to a drag show or read the books they are attempting to ban. But the sad truth is the biggest threat to children is gun violence, in fact gunshot wounds are the number one cause of death for children in America. I find it interesting these people claim they fight for the “protection of children” but they are often the same group that is against universal healthcare, food assistance programs, and continues to prioritize guns above the lives of children. If protecting children was the number one priority, there would be a focus on doing anything and everything to see a child reach adulthood, which means access to food, shelter, education, healthcare, and passing sensible gun laws.
Critical race theory simply asks that we look at the racist past we have here in America and how it impacts today. The Civil Rights Movement was not all that long ago, and we are still feeling impacts of legalized racism today. Below you’ll find several groups we have donated to who continue the fight for racial equality.
Additionally, simply listening to BIPOC voices is a way to show support and learn. I recommend the following accounts:
After making progress for LGBTQ+ rights over the decades, we have seen a massive wave of anti-LGBTQ+ laws, with a large focus on trans people, and drag queens, with claims of grooming children, despite no evidence. It is vital that if you live in one of these areas that is targeting the LGBTQ+ community that you get out and vote each and every election.
Cosmopolitan put together an extensive list of LGBTQ+ groups to donate to, and included in the list are several we have donated to, including the Trevor Project, LGBTQ Freedom Fund, and Human Rights Campaign. You can also attend your local Pride parade to showcase your support!
The overturning of Roe v. Wade is a direct attack on those with a uterus, as well as privacy and Conservatives will not end with Roe. Additionally, harsh penalties are being lobbied for those who seek abortions, yet oftentimes the penalty for rape is less severe, proving that this is more about control. Supporting groups like Planned Parenthood and National Network of Abortion Funds, through donating and/or volunteering is vital to keep people seeking birth control and abortion safe. The Women’s March is an event that happens across the country, and one we have attended before. Protesting showcases demands and numbers, so if you have the ability to get out and protest, please do! All three groups mentioned above we regularly donate to. I also adore the brand Love, Al which offers great shirts and more sharing pro-choice messages, and they donate ten percent of profits to various groups in need. Remember, banning abortion doesn’t end abortion. Things that reduce abortion are comprehensive sex education, free and easy access to a range of birth control options, and universal healthcare.
Want to know what to do when you see or experience harassment, racism, and/or sexism? I highly recommend the various training offered by Right to Be (formerly Hollaback!) which I have done in the past. They have multiple free training programs you can do from the comfort of your own home.
Another way to work towards change is to participate in Postcards to Voters. It’s a great campaign that has seen success in voter turn out. It’s easy to do, and something you can do while watching TV or get your friends involved and have a night hanging out and getting the word out! It’s something I’ve done over the last couple of years that it always cheers me up when I’m feeling lost or defeated.
Speaking of voting, voting is the most important thing you can do! Please make sure you are registered to vote! You can check your status via Rock the Vote. If you’ve moved you are going to need to update your registration. Under 18, but will be 18 by the time of the next election? You can still register to vote so you’ll be all set come Election Day! And please remember to vote in each and every election!
This is of course a non-exhaustive list, but more of a highlight reel of what I would like to see change in our country. I hope this post inspires you to look around and see what you can do to make a change in our country. And if you don’t live in the United States, and you’ve made it this far, thank you, and I hope you’ve found something here useful!
And now time to address my return to Knott’s Berry Farm. Back in 2020 I was thrilled to announce I had been selected to become a Knott’s Berry Farm ambassador, only for it to crumble under COVID and how Cedar Fair chose to say nothing, while countless other institutions stood up for the Black community, amid the Black Lives Matter movement. I ultimately chose to leave the program. I am glad I did, because it made me realize I do not like being tied to any brand or company. Meanwhile, I’ve had so much time to reflect on my contact I had with the ambassador program and learn more about what goes on behind the scenes at Knott’s Berry Farm through others who work there. There was only one person in discussion with higher-ups at Cedar Fair, and it was a person who had so many spinning plates both at work and on a personal level, that I honestly don’t know how they handled it all. I believe now that they knew BLM discussions with Cedar Fair were a dead end, and something had to give, which was that effort. They understood the power dynamic and did what was best for them in that moment. Recently Knott’s Berry Farm has added diversity training to their hiring program, and it is a step in the right direction to create better understanding between coworkers and guests. Additionally, Knott’s offers an amazing education program for schools, which aids in giving children a better understanding of the past, which I find vital. Learning through books is wonderful, but hands on experiences really bring the past alive.
Outfit
Sunglasses: Sherman Oaks Antique Mall, Sherman Oaks, California
Peace Sign Necklace: Etsy (seller no longer exists)
Tee: I don’t remember, but I got it after I saw it on TwinPineAppleScruff
Shorts: Buffalo Exchange
Bangles: Match Accessories
Shoes: Re-Mix
Purse: Gift from a friend
Carla’s Outfit
Blouse & Skirt: Buffalo Exchange
I love everything about this ❤️