The Cost of Democracy: Recommitting to Freedom

Dear Morgan Family,

On this day, a holiday rooted in this nation’s origins and a referendum on tyranny and absolute rule by monarchy, our country celebrates its independence and freedom. Embracing these ideals, I find myself reflecting on the powerful words attributed to two of our historical leaders—Martin Luther King, Jr. and Benjamin Franklin. The first being “Freedom ain’t free” and the second “You have a Republic, if you can keep it,” respectively. Whether or not either actually made these statements, these are prophetic words nonetheless! Both ring clear in this modern day.

Today, in 2024, we are arguably facing questions that will define who we are as a nation, as a society, and as the standard bearers of the 248-year “experiment” of American democracy: Do we want freedom? Do we want democracy? Do we want an autocracy? Almost every day, it seems as if the Supreme Court, an appellate court, or some lesser court has snatched away another right from us—rights that were won in so many instances with bloodshed.

As each day passes and these rights appear to erode at their foundation, phrases like the “land of the free” ring hollow.

And so, on this Independence Day, as families and friends gather in parks or backyards for cookouts and as fireworks burst in the nighttime air, I ask everyone to stand up for democracy and freedom. If we don’t, we might awaken at some point from this stupor and ask, “How did we lose our freedom and all of the rights we once enjoyed?”

Let’s honor the sacrifices of our ancestors and commit ourselves to exercising our VOTE to keep and perfect our democracy.

Yours in freedom, 

President Wilson