Day after the fireworks: Inaugural Martyrs Day asks what freedom cost — and who paid
By Shawnee Calhoun In the United States, Independence Day reflects the ongoing duality of our country. The promise of life, but without the individual right to bodily autonomy nor the security to express joy and community without opposition. The promise of freedom from the British Crown, but not from internal oppression and systemic racism. The promise of the right to pursue happiness, but without the fair economic, housing or agricultural practices to guarantee equal opportunity to access it to its fullest potential.
Black News 
By Shawnee Calhoun
In the United States, Independence Day reflects the ongoing duality of our country. The promise of life, but without the individual right to bodily autonomy nor the security to express joy and community without opposition. The promise of freedom from the British Crown, but not from internal oppression and systemic racism. The promise of the right to pursue happiness, but without the fair economic, housing or agricultural practices to guarantee equal opportunity to access it to its fullest potential.
