Commemorating the True Meaning of Independence Day

Students enrolled in the Diocese of Orlando’s schools in Polk County eagerly anticipate Independence Day cookouts and fireworks, but what is this holiday’s true meaning? Is there significance to the extravagant firework displays? What are the red, white, and blue colors telling us? Read below to learn the true meaning of Independence Day and the significance of its many iconic symbols.Celebrating IndependenceJuly 4, 1776 was the day our country’s founding fathers declared independence from Great Britain. Before that, Colonial America was an English colony and had to follow British laws, which did not work as well in a country far away. Thomas Jefferson authored the Declaration of Independence, and it was signed by all the members of the Continental Congress before being sent to King George. Going against Great Britain also meant going to war against Great Britain, and it was not until the war ended in 1783 that the newly founded United States won the war and fully gained their independence. This was extremely important because no other colony in the world had ever broken ties with its mother country, and the British army at the time was the strongest in the world.The Meaning of Our FlagOur flag has changed drastically since it was first flown more than 200 years ago. The colors are very specific, with red stripes signifying the hardiness and valor the men who were killed in the Revolutionary War; the white stripes signifying purity and innocence, and the total of 13 stripes stands for the original 13 colonies who won their independence. The blue background for the stars signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice. Why do we have stars and stripes? The House of Representatives published a book in 1988 explaining, “The star is a symbol of the heavens and the divine goal to which man has aspired from time immemorial; the stripe is symbolic of the rays of light emanating from the sun." Because of the deep meaning of the flag as a symbol of our country and the men who died defending our independence, the flag is to be treated with great respect.America’s Unique FreedomsThe United States of America was founded on the belief that every one of its citizens has the “unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” The first Ten Amendments give American citizens rights that citizens in other countries do not have, such as the right to free speech, the right of religion, and the right to bear arms. Without these rights, many people would live much less happy lives.Help your children better understand their role of citizens of the United States by enrolling them in one of the Diocese of Orlando’s Catholic schools in Polk County where they will learn the importance of citizenship, stewardship, volunteering, and helping others. When we all participate in making the world a better place, the changes will be amazing. Contact the Diocese today at 407-246-4800 and read our blogs for more information on Catholic education.