July 4, 2026, marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the most defining moment in our country’s history. The signing of this declaration marked our independence from Great Britain and laid the foundation for the founding of the United States of America.
Thomas Jefferson wrote: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
The American Declaration of Independence sparked a revolution in the hearts and minds of our countrymen. As a daily reminder of this bold and courageous act, I have a 48″ x 54″ reproduction of the Declaration of Independence displayed in my office. I received this copy when I received my citizenship merit badge at age 13. My mother had it framed for me, and it has hung on the wall of every office I have held, from the SGA President’s office at the University of Alabama to my legislative office in the State House, the Secretary of State’s office in the Capitol, and now here in my office in Birmingham at Waggoner Engineering.
It is important to remember how our nation was founded and why we are the United States of America. We must remember the sacrifices we made to secure our freedom and the seminal events that helped shape our identity and create and promote the ideals and fundamental moral principles we live by today. As time passes, many may forget the significance of days like Pearl Harbor, D-Day, the assassination of President Kennedy, September 11, Independence Day, Veterans Day, or Memorial Day, but it is of the utmost importance to never forget these events.
Independence Day is more than just a day for good food and fireworks; it’s a day to celebrate our nation’s independence and honor the brave men and women who fought for our freedom. We should make a conscious effort to celebrate Independence Day with patriotism and remembrance every July 4th.
Every Independence Day, I attend several community events throughout Alabama’s 67 counties. Events include:
- Oxford Lake (Calhoun County)
- American Village in Montevallo (Shelby County)
- Annual Independence Day Breakfast on July 4th at Henagar Community Center (DeKalb County)
- Sand Mountain Potato Festival (DeKalb County)
- Stars & Stripes Forever Celebration (Madison County, now Star Spangled Celebration)
- The Spirit of America Festival (Morgan County)
- The Tuscaloosa Symphony performance at the Mercedes Benz Amphitheater (Tuscaloosa County) and many others.
When deciding how you and your family will celebrate Independence Day, consider attending the festivals and celebrations in your country. No matter how you celebrate Independence Day on the Fourth of July, please take a moment to recognize those who have made and continue to make sacrifices so that we can celebrate with our friends and family.
John H. Merrill served as a member of the Alabama House of Representatives from 2010 to 2014 and as the 53rd Secretary of State of Alabama from 2015 to 2023.
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