Independence Day: A Civic Reawakening

Independence Day 2023 brings the United States within three years of its 250th anniversary — a milestone for which there is woeful under-preparation. In contrast to the multi-year Bicentennial celebration of 1976, the approaching 250th anniversary has garnered little attention. Yes, a national Semiquincentennial Commission is making plans, and state and local governments are following suit. Yet the broader culture and popular arena are not yet following these plans.

Divisive public discourse and pessimism about the future may explain some of this. A hyper-focus on presentism could also be a factor. Viewing the past superficially, blindly worshiping predecessors as pure heroes or condemning them as pure villains rather than appreciating the complex people they were, might also be to blame.

LA

About the Author

Lucia A. Silecchia

Lucia A. Silecchia is professor of law and associate dean for faculty research at the Catholic University of America’s Columbus School of Law.

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Declaration of Independence

American Revolution

Love of Country

Independence Day 2023 brings the United States within three years of its 250th anniversary — a milestone for which there is woeful under-preparation. In contrast to the multi-year Bicentennial celebration of 1976, the approaching 250th anniversary has garnered little attention. Yes, a national Semiquincentennial Commission is making plans, and state and local governments are following suit. Yet the broader culture and popular arena are not yet following these plans.

Divisive public discourse and pessimism about the future may explain some of this. A hyper-focus on presentism could also be a factor. Viewing the past superficially, blindly worshiping predecessors as pure heroes or condemning them as pure villains rather than appreciating the complex people they were, might also be to blame.