California Gov. Gavin Newsom proclaimed July 4 “Independence Day”, a traditional move on July 4 but with wording that seemed to carry a political message.
The proclamation begins in a typical manner, “Each year on the Fourth of July, we celebrate the day our founders stood up to tyranny and formed a new nation founded on the principles of equality, freedom, and opportunity.
“From its very beginning, though, America did not guarantee equality, freedom, and opportunity to all,” the proclamation continues.
A few lines later, the message becomes more direct.
“Relentless attacks across the country, from the highest levels, try to weaken and erase our fundamental rights and freedoms, threatening to undo decades of hard-won progress we’ve made as a nation,” the proclamation continues.
“Today and every day, California reaffirms our commitment to fully realizing our nation’s founding ideals, that all are created equal, with the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We will never back down from the fight to protect freedom, we will protect the rights of all who call this country home, and we will never again allow this country and its people to be subject to a king or autocrat.”
The last words could be construed to refer to thousands of “No Kings” protests that took place nationally and abroad on June 14 in opposition to President Donald Trump’s methods and policies. The protests were timed to counter Trump’s military parade in Washington D.C. to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Army. It was also the president’s birthday.
The proclamation concludes, “At this critical juncture, let us recommit to keeping the dream of this country alive for all Americans.”
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