Jim Tompkins’ Post

#4thofJuly The 4th of July represents the culmination of this long and arduous struggle for independence. It is a celebration of the ideals and values that the United States was founded upon, such as liberty, democracy, and the pursuit of happiness. The day is marked by parades, fireworks displays, barbecues, and other patriotic festivities that bring Americans together to commemorate their shared history and national identity. However, the legacy of the 4th of July is not without its complexities and contradictions. The country has faced numerous internal and external conflicts throughout its history, from the Civil War to the Vietnam War, and the struggle for civil rights and social justice continues to this day. The ideals of the Declaration of Independence have not always been fully realized, and the country has had to confront its own history of slavery, racism, and oppression. Despite these challenges, the 4th of July remains a powerful symbol of American national unity and pride. It represents the enduring spirit of the American people, who have fought to defend their freedom and democracy, and who continue to strive for a more just and equitable society. For many Americans, the 4th of July is a time to reflect on the country's past, celebrate its present, and look towards a future in which the promises of the Declaration of Independence are fully realized. https://lnkd.in/dFagX_g4

Juneteenth is a significant date in American history and the African American experience. The name is a play on the date of June 19th, 1865. On that day, the Union Army made its way into Galveston, TX under the leadership of General Gordon Granger, and he announced to the people of Texas that all enslaved African Americans were free. Even though we know that the Emancipation Proclamation freed African Americans in rebelling states (Texas being one of them, from as early as it when the Proclamation went into effect on January 1st, 1863) and we know that the Civil War had ended in April of 1865, it took a while for freedom to make its way to the western most rebelling state. Although there were enslavers who were aware of the implementation of the Emancipation Proclamation, it wasn’t until June 19th, 1865 that it was actually enforced with the Union Army. June 19th freed enslaved people in the rebelling states, it did not free enslaved people throughout the nation. Keep in mind, there were still border states which were still part of the Union. They had not seceded from the Union, and they still maintained slavery. Maryland, for example, was one of them. It took the creation of the Emancipation Proclamation, the end of the Civil War, and the passage of the 13th Amendment to finally end slavery throughout the nation. The Reconstruction Amendments are significant as they came into being after the end of the Civil War. They include the 13th Amendment that ended slavery; the 14th Amendment provides citizenship, due process and equal protection; and the 15th Amendment provides the opportunity to vote and hold office. Mary Elliott, Curator of American Slavery https://lnkd.in/gfss6-ku

When describing America’s story, I find myself reflecting upon the words spoken by Frederick Douglass, the great orator, abolitionist, American Official and Diplomat, and giant of American History: “If there is no struggle, there is no progress”. The American Story is just that- one of trials and triumphs; one of progress, but never without its share of struggles to achieve said progress. This description applies to the tumultuous birth of The United States, the growth of the nation, and is essential to understanding the story of civil rights in America. The story of African-Americans in America is woven into the very fabric of our nation, and today, we are fortunate to celebrate our collective story. On this day in 1865, the news of emancipation and the end of The Civil War finally reached the enslaved African-Americans of Galveston, Texas, marking yet another milestone in America’s story- concrete advancements in the eradication of chattel slavery in “the land of the free”. While this would eventually come to fruition via The 13th Amendment to The Constitution, ratified later that year, Juneteenth became a celebration of liberation and freedom for all immediately after the news was delivered. Festivities took place in the streets of Galveston, and the first annual celebrations began in 1866. While many states had already formalized the holiday, The United States officially recognized the day in 2021, making it the newest federal holiday. Today, we take the time, not only to celebrate, but also to reflect upon all of the brave Americans who struggled tirelessly to ensure progress was achieved and to hold America accountable to the ideals to which she holds herself. I wish a Happy Juneteenth National Independence Day to all!

I am often reminded that American democracy, with its enduring values and principles, holds significant import for both the future of our nation and the broader global community. At its core, this system is not simply about the electoral process or governance; it is a representation of the profound belief in the rights and potential of every individual and the very idea that all voices must be heard without special interest. The United States, since its inception, has served as a testament to the transformative power of a nation rooted in ideals of freedom, equality, and justice. Though not without flaws or historical missteps, the continuous evolution of our nation emphasizes the unwavering spirit of the American dream – the notion that everyone, regardless of background, has the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Beyond our borders, America's influence is palpable. The democratic values championed by the U.S. have inspired movements, reforms, and revolutions across the globe. When countries witness the power of an informed citizenry, the impartiality of a judiciary, or the potential for peaceful transfers of power, they see a reflection of the American democratic framework. It serves as a reminder that systems which prioritize the people, their voices, and their rights are not only possible but sustainable. However, for America to sustain its position as a beacon of hope and a model for nascent democracies, it's crucial that the foundational tenets of our system remain unimpeachable. The trustworthiness of democratic processes, from voting to representation, is non-negotiable. For if these principles waver, the ripple effect may jeopardize not just our national integrity but the global pursuit of freedom and equality. We all must engage in personal responsibility to ensure these very rigorous tenets are never compromised by ourselves, our politicians and especially our bureaucracy. In essence, American democracy is more than a system; it's a promise – to its citizens and to the world. A promise that, when nurtured and protected, can guide nations toward a future where freedom and equality reign supreme. #America #Freedom #Democracy #Peace #Responsibility #Decency

Saturday, October 28, 2023 PART FIVE OF ELEVEN A Comparative Insight into Resistance Narratives: From Nat Turner to Global Struggles against Racial Injustice and Apartheid  The uprising of 1831, led by Nat Turner in Virginia, occupies a prominent position in the annals of U.S. history, epitomising a fervent call for resistance. As we traverse various epochs and regions, exploring resistance movements worldwide, it becomes evident that several of them echo shared themes, even as they emerge from their unique historical and sociopolitical terrains. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… The universal aspiration for human rights often finds itself at the forefront of resistance movements. Nat Turner, fueled by his profound desire for emancipation, sought to obliterate the yoke of slavery, yearning for freedom and the recognition of human dignity. In another part of the world, Palestinians have continuously pursued their right to national self-determination amidst a complex web of geopolitical challenges.  Moments of Resistance: The annals of history are punctuated by instances where marginalised groups, finding no recourse in pacifism, have chosen the path of violent resistance. Turner's rebellion, a poignant testament to this, resulted in the loss of several lives. Similarly, particular factions within the Palestinian community have, in some instances, resorted to violent measures in response to Israeli policies.   Nevertheless, it is essential to approach these narratives with a nuanced perspective. Drawing direct parallels can be precarious. The Palestinian struggle is layered, enveloped in national, religious, and broader geopolitical aspects, distinct from Turner's fight against the brutalities of racial subjugation in the U.S.   In light of the recent events on October 7, 2023, navigating such discourses with empathy and discretion is paramount. Recognising the multifaceted motivations and contextual forces behind any action allows for a deeper, more informed understanding. Given the current surge in hostilities, the emphasis should be on advocating for peace, dialogue, and harmonious coexistence. Discovery of Nat Turner wood engraving by William Henry Shelton, 1881 Profile: Birth: October 2, 1800, Southampton County, Virginia, U.S. Demise: November 11, 1831 (aged 31), Jerusalem, Virginia, U.S. Cause of Death: Judicial execution. Legacy: Pioneer of one of the most notable uprisings against slavery in the U.S. The Undying Quest for Rights

On July 4th, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, a bold statement of freedom from British rule. It was a moment marked by courage and a united vision for liberty, echoing through the historic words, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal." This day not only marked the birth of a new nation but also set forth a new ideology that would come to define the American spirit. Through the 19th and 20th centuries, July 4th transformed from a mere commemoration of independence into a broader celebration of American ideals. It became a day to reflect not just on freedom, but on the ongoing struggles to extend the liberties promised in 1776 to all citizens. The abolition of slavery, the women's suffrage movement, and the civil rights era each found a symbolic anchor in the Fourth of July—each a chapter in the larger story of a nation striving to live up to its responsibilities. Today, July 4th also serves as a day of reflection and forward thinking. It reminds us of the ongoing need to nurture and defend the liberties we hold dear and to ensure that the promise of America extends to all its citizens. The day is an opportunity to celebrate the strides we have made as a nation, while also acknowledging the work that remains in pursuit of a more inclusive, equitable From its origins as a day commemorating revolutionary change to its current role as a celebration of unity amid diversity, July 4th has evolved to become a deeply meaningful day in the American calendar. It is a day that honors the past, celebrates the present, and looks forward to a future where the ideals of freedom, justice, and equality are realized for everyone in ever richer and more inclusive ways. Through these evolving celebrations, July 4th continues to inspire and unite, reminding us that our strength lies in our unity and our diversity.

Another milestone in Americas slide towards socialism. Because “freedom from want and fear” aren’t freedoms at all but rights that must be politically provided for… Read more about it in my new book www.radicalbetrayal.com #ushistory #uspolitics

Juneteenth, or Emancipation Day, commemorates the liberation of the last slsves following the Emancipation Proclamation. Let's celebrate this significant milestone in our history and honor the value of freedom. Learn more about the historical legacy of Juneteenth here: https://lnkd.in/epEqMxPk