It’s America’s 250th birthday
This year isn’t just any Independence Day… it’s America’s 250th birthday! As we gather to celebrate in the traditional ways with backyard barbecues and fireworks, we also remember that on July 4th, 1776, two hundred and fifty years ago, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence and announced the thirteen united* States of America had severed all ties to the British Empire.
These words have echoed the canyons of history ever since:
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. That, to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That, whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it….
Language and its meaning change over centuries, of course. But our founding principles are clear: We are all equal under the law. We have the right to live in freedom and pursue what makes us happy and –– perhaps the most radical idea of all –– the powers of government rest with the will of the people.
And thus, with the signing, democracy in America was born.
Progress and patriotism
And, yes, it is true that America has not always lived up to the words and spirit of the Declaration. Our history includes clear failures and painful contradictions. Millions were enslaved for decades, and millions more denied the right to vote.
But the enduring beauty of our story is our capacity for growth. And if, as stated in this founding document, the power rests with the people, our challenge now and in the future is to protect democracy, respect the rule of law, defend freedom, and recognize the dignity of our neighbors.
Patriotism is not only love of country; it is a pledge to become better, fairer, and stronger.
Abraham Lincoln recommitted us to these principles in the Gettysburg Address:
…we resolve that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.
So on this Fourth of July, our 250th anniversary, let us be reminded of and rededicate ourselves to these magnificent ideals and celebrate our shared responsibility: to carry forward a truly remarkable model of governance – democracy.
This is the promise of America.
From all of us at the Greenwich Democratic Town Committee, have a safe and joyful Independence Day weekend!
*The word “united” is not capitalized in the Declaration.
What we’re reading
In keeping with the spirit of the holiday, we highly recommend, “The Constitution: A Comprehensive and Annotated Guide for the Modern Reader.” In this book, legal scholar and New York University professor (and Yale Law graduate), Melissa Murray, breaks down our founding document in an easy-to-understand and accessible way. The author strips away the dense legalese to show exactly how these foundational laws impact our current political and social landscape. It is an empowering, timely read for anyone looking to better understand — and actively protect — our democratic institutions.
Also, stay in the loop on local news and events by subscribing to Selectwoman Rachel Khanna’s informative weekly newsletter.
Action Calendar
July 2. Celebrate.
When the annual Independence Day fireworks light up the sky, don’t miss Greenwich’s bigger-than-ever displays, starting at dusk, to celebrate our nation’s historic 250th birthday. (Rain date: July 11.) Binney and Greenwich Point parks in Old Greenwich.
July 4. Honor.
At our annual Fourth of July ceremony, gather at Town Hall to honor our local veterans and Revolutionary War patriots with a 21-gun salute, enjoy live music by the Sound Beach Community Band and enjoy a presentation of the original 13 colony flags. A reception featuring America’s birthday cake will follow. At 9 a.m., rain or shine. 101 Field Point Road.
July 12. Join us.
This is your chance to get to know our fantastic Democratic candidates running for State House and Senate. Sunday, July 12, 4-6 p.m. at a private residence in Greenwich. Address will be shared upon RSVP.
July 14. Fête.
Join the Alliance Francais of Greenwich and our local leaders for a cherished tradition as we raise the French flag at Town Hall to commemorate Bastille Day! There will be a formal proclamation and flag-raising, we’ll sing both national anthems, and conclude the celebration with a delightful petit déjeuner (breakfast) provided by Raphael’s Bakery. 9 a.m., Greenwich Town Hall, 101 Field Point Road.
July 15. Meet.
Greenwich Democratic Town Committee meeting. Open to all local Democrats. Special guest speaker State Representative Matt Blumenthal. Join us 7:30-9 p.m. in the Meeting Room at Town Hall, 101 Field Point Road.
| Volume 5, Number 1 • July 2, 2026 |
| Paid for by the Greenwich Democratic Town Committee. |
| Greenwich Democratic Town Committee P.O. Box 126 Greenwich, CT 06836 |