Independence Day
Independence Day celebrates the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, in Philadelphia. This event is important for citizens of the United States of America as it recognizes the break of the British colonies from the British Empire. It is often celebrated by parades, cook outs and fireworks displays.
Resources
Unitarian Universalist Origins: Our Historic Faith (PDF) by Mark W. Harris. Includes a great description of how Unitarian Universalists (UUs) grew along with the young United States
Action
Celebrate Independence Day by devoting a day of service to community. Show this country your love by cleaning natural areas, painting over graffiti or any other direct service.
March in a local parade as an anti-war group. Show your love for the country and support for the troops by asking for their quick and responsible redeployment home. Or honor the diversity of this nation by hosting a BGLTQA float. Or march for comprehensive and compassionate immigration reform.
Hold pot luck for the hungry. Have people in your church or community bring a hot dish, salad or side and serve a free meal in the park for your community's forgotten members.
Unitarian Universalist Association Grounding
At least two signers of the Declaration of Independence were confirmed Unitarians—John Adams and Benjamin Rush. While another signer, Thomas Jefferson is often claimed by UUs as he was sympathetic to Unitarian theology.
Unitarian Universalism is a uniquely American religious tradition. Many of our values are deeply rooted in the same values that started this country. As American citizens, we celebrate this holiday as recognizing the freedoms we have—including the freedom to practice our chosen religion.
However, many of the political values of the nation are not shared by UUs today. We claim this holiday to remind us to work for the promise of the nation to promote peace, justice and equity for all.
Last updated on Thursday, June 19, 2008.
