Every summer, my favorite day of the year comes around, the Fourth of July. It is a day filled with my favorite things to celebrate our nation’s independence. Many of us go to the beach, watch fireworks, spend time with friends and family, laugh at “put it in reverse Terry” memes, and so much more! Just as the fireworks light up the sky, your vote can illuminate the path toward ensuring our nation’s values and principles.

Sometimes we get caught up in our surface-level festivities and forget what we are celebrating, our nation’s independence. July 4th is a day to reflect on the history of our nation, the sacrifices made by our forefathers, and the principles upon which our democracy was built. It is a day to remind us of the fundamental values that shape our society, including the right to vote.

Voting is the power vested within us. It is not just a civic duty; it is a way to shape the future of our communities and influence the direction of our nation. Every vote cast has the potential to change something or keep something just the way it is. This does not just impact us as individuals, but also the lives of our fellow citizens.

To truly comprehend the significance of voting, I had the privilege of witnessing its power firsthand as a House Page this past April. I saw how their decisions, which were shaped by the people through the ballot, had effects on the lives of everyday citizens. This was also the first time I realized that voting for something to stay the same had just as much impact as voting for change.

My time as a House Page showed me that voting is more than just an individual choice, it is community empowerment. It allows us to stand up for the things that we believe in and support candidates who reflect our values. I was able to look at voting through a new set of eyes, and I am so thankful for that because what I learned has already impacted the way I view things.

This Fourth of July, let us remember the individuals who fought to secure our freedom and the rights that we have. Let their sacrifices remind us that our liberties should never be taken for granted. Let us also take a moment to appreciate the privilege of voting, which is a way for us to have our voices heard and our dreams to have a chance to become reality.

As you begin your festivities this year, let the spirit of July 4th ignite a passion within you. Be sure to exercise your vote, have meaningful conversations, and be an agent of positive change within your community. By doing all of this, we honor what Independence Day truly is! So, remember July 4th is more than just going to the beach and watching fireworks. It represents our nation’s journey, reminding us of the importance of our voice, which is expressed through the power of voting!