Folly #101: Freedom for Whom?
Learning what July 4th is. And isn't.
I’ve been lucky in many ways. Born white and middle class into a family where food, shelter, clothing, education and recreation were readily available. For me, July 4th was mostly a chance to watch fireworks.
And in work, I’ve also been lucky. I’ve had experiences that were completely new and unfamiliar to me. Like being the only person in the room with my skin color. (And an overdue appreciation that Black and Brown friends and colleagues have that experience all the time. I know. Duh.)
Those same friends and colleagues, and an excellent series by three Smithsonian curators of the National Museum of African American History & Culture, remind me that the 4th of July is not their holiday. For many, July 4th is “fixed in 1776,” representing freedom from control for adult white males. Slavery and unequal access to basic citizen rights have continued to exist — beyond the Emancipation Proclamation, and the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments.
I’ve learned that Juneteenth, not July 4th, is the celebration of freedom for many Americans.
The Follies shed light on some of the absurd hoops placed before nonprofits. “Jump!” say funders. And talented, weary nonprofit staff do just that, lest any funding opportunity go unattempted. Yet foundations are the ones with staffing, program knowledge, financial resources, and technical assistance to make everything easier for nonprofits.
Unrestricted funding is freedom. Freedom to thrive. Freedom to test, learn, evolve and achieve a mission. Freedom to speak boldly and expect that we can do better. Freedom to create a better life.
Nonprofits exist because we all benefit from their programs and services. And many work for justice and freedom.
Photo credit: Me. “Squiggles” from our local county fair.
On this 4th of July, I wish you freedom, justice and respect, and people you love to share it with you.