Happy 4th of July weekend!!

Our country (America) was founded on ideals of freedom, justice, and liberty.

When we first think of the Fourth of July (which has been a federal holiday since 1941), usually it is of burgers sizzling on the grill, fireworks, sparklers, and summer! While these fun and festive traditions are certainly part of this major American holiday, it is also important to reflect and recognize that one has to take action to ensure these freedoms continue to exist, that justice is fair and equal, and that our liberty is kept intact.

And today, fighting for the rights our founders intended each citizen to have has become more important than ever.

But one freedom you may not think about is freedom from violence. Any act of domestic violence is the opposite of the ideals that make our country what it is. Domestic violence and perpetrators of it, are the antithesis of freedom, justice, and liberty. Each act of domestic violence, small or large, takes away that bit of freedom from its victim.

In the celebration of this July 4th weekend, think about anything you may be able to do to take action against domestic violence. Reflect on the year to come – is there anything more you can do to help another, to help a domestic violence victim, a mother, or a child? Each action we take does make a difference.

Enjoy your Independence Day weekend!