America’s Independence Day is observed annually on the fourth of July. On that day, people generally gather with friends and family to eat, march in parades, watch fireworks and participate in other social activities. It is a federal holiday and an opportunity to celebrate. But what exactly are we celebrating?
To me, Independence Day is a time to celebrate being American and having the freedom to choose in so many areas of my life. Growing up, my family had the freedom to worship as we chose, which included not attending any type of religious services at all. In college, I had the freedom to choose my field of study; I was not restricted to the liberal arts, science, business or any other field. I freely chose whom to date (and eventually marry) without regard to race, religion or family background. I have the freedom to pursue whatever career I choose, and to continue working (or not) even after having a child. I can choose what to wear, where to live, and for whom to vote.
And I can choose (within reason) what to write about in this blog!
After practicing law for a number of years, Michael Jay Friedman returned to school and earned a doctorate in U.S. political and diplomatic history. 
Michelle Austein Brooks is a U.S. government and politics writer who has covered three national elections for America.gov. 
Peggy B. Hu defied Asian-American stereotypes in college by studying comparative literature and international relations rather than math and science. 
Stephen Kaufman is an experienced writer who has covered the White House and the State Department, and continues to report on international and democracy issues, including press freedom. 
Tanya Brothen is a blogging enthusiast who began writing for the web on a whim. Now it’s her job.
Comments (1)
Meer Tanveer
Location: Gujranwala pakistan
July 9, 2009 at 04:08 EDT
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the coutry where i live is democracy is :Govt of the class for the class and by the class:It doesn;t matter whether it is the govt of Islamists or so called liberals or fujis or civils,the same class will be benefited and we commom pakies will be waiting everything from Allah beacuse we in the land of pures is taught that every thing comes from Allah.