On January 20, 1961 John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address inspired Americans to see the importance of civic action and public service.
His historic words, which sound more relevant today than ever, “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country,” challenged every American to contribute in some way to the public good.
We hope we would all be able to decide for ourselves how to become a vital part of our great country’s civic action, and to consider how to become better citizens and members of society today and going forward.
Happy Independence Day, America!
A Brief History
Independence Day, also referred to as the Fourth of July or July Fourth, is a federal holiday in the United States, commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
The Continental Congress declared that the thirteen American colonies regarded themselves as a new nation, the United States of America, and were no longer part of the British Empire. The Congress actually voted to declare independence two days earlier, on July 2.
Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family reunions, and political speeches and ceremonies, in addition to various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States.
Observance
