Celebrating the Efforts to Achieve Supreme Justice

Independence Day is normally a time of rejoicing and fun activities but unfortunately for many this year is not the same. For me, an Ahmadi Muslim, who isn’t afforded first amendment rights in many other countries as I am in the United States, I am most proud of being an American where I can express my gratitude of being allowed the freedom of conscience here that many of my faith are not privileged to have.

However, amidst a pandemic, protests, and unemployment abound all at once, celebrating the country that has failed to protect your rights to live would seem counter-intuitive. With the situation at hand, celebrating Independence Day has become much more than partaking in the normal festivities this year but also to participate in actions to push societal reforms so that all Americans can be afforded the needs and rights they deserve. Celebrating Independence Day this
year means to continue the efforts of our forefathers for the advancements of civil rights throughout American history which the holiday represents. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community launched many programs nationwide to assist our neighbors to meet their needs with food pantries and blood drives and writing to our local government officials urging them to adopt policies such as New York’s Section 50-a bill for police reform. The Holy Qur’an enjoins upon us to
uphold justice stating, “…when you judge between men, you judge with justice.” (4:59) I wish my fellow Americans a Happy Independence Day and pray that we may see positive changes in our nation.