The Light of Freedom: A Republican Reflection on July 4th

As we gather with family and friends this Independence Day – let’s remember that July 4th is more than just a summer holiday. It’s a reminder of who we are: a nation founded on the bold idea that government exists to serve the people, not rule them.

That idea – the belief that freedom is a God-given right – has defined America from the very beginning. And it’s still worth fighting for today.

Freedom is not just a privilege. It is a promise that makes America different. It’s what drew our ancestors and modern-day immigrants to this country. They came from all over because they knew what so many Americans sometimes forget – in America, you can worship freely, speak boldly, and build a life without asking permission from your government.

That kind of freedom isn’t easy. It comes with responsibility. It requires strong families, good schools, faith in something bigger than ourselves, and leaders who remember they work for the people – not the other way around.

Patriotism is loving our country without apology. Being patriotic doesn’t mean pretending America’s perfect. While Nationalism demands obedience and subservience to a system of governance and its leaders, Patriotism is gratitude and devotion combined with the love, courage, and commitment to make America better for everyone. It means honoring the sacrifice of every soldier, every law enforcement officer, and every citizen who’s helped move our country forward – even in tough times.

Patriotism isn’t a slogan. It’s a commitment. And in the Republican tradition, it means standing up for the values that make this country worth defending: freedom, personal responsibility, faith, and the dignity of every human life.

“E Pluribus Unum” is etched in the Great Seal of the United States- “Out of many, one.” Pluralism is the political philosophy that allows people of different backgrounds and beliefs to coexist in the same society. Freedom of religion and speech are examples of pluralistic ideas protected by the First Amendment. Some people think unity means we all have to think the same. That’s not unity – that’s conformity. America’s strength comes from its diversity of thought and its shared commitment to the Constitution.

In America, you can be different and still be American. You can debate, disagree, and still find common ground – as long as we’re rooted in truth. Pluralism doesn’t mean abandoning our values. It means standing firm in them – and having the courage to live alongside others who believe differently.

The Fourth of July isn’t just a celebration – it’s a challenge that asks us: Are we living in a way that honors the sacrifices of those who came before us? Are we building a country our children will be proud to inherit?

We don’t have to be perfect. But we do have to be brave.

Today, as we attend parades, grill hamburgers, light sparklers and firecrackers; let’s commit ourselves again to the work of freedom. Let’s raise our voices, not in anger – but in faith, in hope, and in gratitude for the greatest country the world has ever known.

As George Washington said:

“The preservation of the sacred fire of liberty and the destiny of the republican model of government are justly considered….. staked on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people.”

That light still shines. But it’s up to us to keep it alive.

Happy Independence Day! May God bless Idaho, and may God continue to bless America.

About the Author

Becky Funk is a 21 year resident of Coeur d’Alene and member of North Idaho Republicans. She is President of North Idaho Federated Republican Women and serves as Congressional District 1 Director for the Idaho Federation of Republican Women.