Independence Day

Independence Day (the Fourth of July or July 4) is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence of the United States, on July 4, 1776. The Continental Congress declared that the thirteen American colonies were no longer subject (and subordinate) to the monarch of Britain, King George III, and were now united, free, and independent states. The Congress had voted to declare independence two days earlier, on July 2, but it was not declared until July 4.

Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family reunions, political speeches, and ceremonies, in addition to various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States. Independence Day is the national day of the United States.

BUT FOR AMERICAN BLACKS, Independence Day is NOT SO SPECIAL and certainly does not represent their independence...  From US News and World Report, staff reporter Elizabeth Flock writes:  ON JUNE 4, 1776, THE Declaration of Independence was signed, marking the colonists' independence from Great Britain. But some 75 years later, some black Americans weren't ready to celebrate.

As one reader of Politico's Playbook writes in to reporter Mike Allen Thursday: "Independence Day is odd for black people. Today, America is a better bet for everybody, but in 1776 most blacks would have sided with the Brits (and many did)."  

Frederick Douglas

Abolitionist movement leader Frederick Douglass gave a scathing speech the day after Independence Day in 1852, saying: "This Fourth of July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn.... Do you mean, citizens, to mock me, by asking me to speak to-day?" 

Douglass reminded listeners that when the Declaration of Independence was signed, many blacks were still slaves. Even the British were more likely to offer freedom to blacks than the colonists.  

Fast forward to 2012, where many Black Americans still remember Douglass's sentiments. 

Chris Rock made his feelings known more plainly Wednesday. Hours before celebratory fireworks went off across the nation, the comedian wrote on Twitter:

HAPPY WHITE PEOPLES INDEPENDENCE DAY THE SLAVES WEREN'T FREE BUT I'M SURE THEY ENJOYED THE FIREWORKS...