The fourth of July is typically celebrated by fireworks and backyard barbeques. It is a time for families and neighbors to get together to celebrate our American way of life. Without Independence, that way of life would be much different. Although fireworks and barbeques are enjoyable, we also need to reflect on how we, as a nation, can keep our independence for the generations to come.
In recent years, our freedoms have been diminishing at a rapid rate. We no longer have the option to choose our health insurance and are penalized if we choose not to purchase it. Our freedom of speech is being assaulted with the pressure of maintaining political correctness. Certain groups are allowed to take offense about what is said or done to them, while others are not. History deemed offensive is being removed from our capitol buildings. The government seeks control through expanding regulations. The President and the executive branch is accumulating more and more power. By renaming something that used to be considered a treaty to a “deal” or “agreement,” the executive can make unilateral accords with foreign powers that bypass congress. The executive branch has been selectively enforcing the laws, which usurps the congress. Congress has even given away their power of the purse. The calls for a clean funding bill meant that Congress was facing the decision of whether or not to fight for their constitutional right to control funding. They passed a clean bill meaning that there is now precedent for congress to defer to the executive branch on funding.
Ironically, we as Americans need to thank our British counterparts this Fourth of July for showing us the importance of independence and smaller government. This past week, UK citizens voted to remove themselves from the European Union by a fairly solid margin (52% leave to 48% stay). There was a nearly 72% voter turnout, the largest turnout since the 1992 general election.
The European Union was created in the 1950’s as a way to ease trade between European nations and draw them together in the wake of World War II.
The European Union creates laws and regulations governing the members of the European Union. One of the major functions is to create a single European economy. Workers are allowed to freely seek employment in any nation within the union and there are no trade tariffs between the nations. For this economic benefit the citizens of member states of the European Union agree to accept decisions made at the European Union level.
However, a membership within this Union means that the individual nation does not have full control over its borders and economy. The majority of citizens in the United Kingdom are beginning to realize the importance of self governance, a principle America was founded on.
This Independence Day, let us celebrate the principle of self governance. In order to preserve the benefits of self governance, we must be wary of our elected politicians and their constant push for greater regulation as well as the corruption of our three branch system of government.