July Reflections: Untangling Freedom and Responsibility on the 4th

As a white cis woman committed to anti-racism, the 4th of July brings up more than just fireworks and flags—it brings questions. This holiday, often framed as a celebration of freedom, asks something different of those of us reckoning with the legacy of whiteness and the history of this nation. Whose freedom was declared in 1776? Whose voices were silenced then—and continue to be now?

What does it mean to be free in a country built on stolen land and forced labor? What does it mean to benefit from systems designed to exclude, while working to dismantle them? What does it mean to be a patriot?

I invite us into an honest exploration of how white people have historically upheld—and can actively challenge—the myths of American freedom. July 4th is a chance not just to remember history, but to interrogate our place within it. We have a lot of work to do!

See you on the journey,

Robin



PISAB: Undoing Racism and Community Organizing Workshop

In Person: New Orleans  (July 21st at 10:00AM - July 23rd at 4:00PM)

Click below to register:

https://pisab.salsalabs.org/20250022NOLARegionalJulyinpersonWorkshop/index.html

Registration: Summer Rejuvenation — Comrades Education

Summer Rejuvenation is an online program hosted by Comrades Education providing immediate support for activists, allies, and everyday people taking action across multiple fronts this summer. Together with eight remarkable guests, we'll be sharing stories, sharing strategies & gathering our strength.”

Embodying Racial Justice Level I - White — Dara Silverman

July 24: Virtual session at 8 pm ET/ 5 pm PT- Resourcing Yourself for the Long-Haul. In this free, virtual practice session, we will delve into practices for building individual and collective capacity to meet this moment. You’ll leave with tools for tuning in to the things that fill you up and sustain you and a deeper connection to a shared community of practice.


Robin Schlenger