Land of the free, home of the brave

It’s a privilege to be an American. I know it and I value it, more than you know.

But I’ve often thought that immigrants value it more. Americans, in many ways, take our freedoms – won through the bloodshed of our fellow citizens past and present – for granted.

We have these magnificent freedoms – to speak, assemble, worship – as we see fit. In other countries, citizens face oppression, jail or even death for the simple act of speaking out or showing up for a cause they believe in.

There will be many chances to celebrate today, to watch the rockets’ red glare, to feel the pride of the red, white and blue at parades, concerts and festivals throughout San Diego. We have that list for you, along with a complete compilation of fireworks shows and our weekend guide too.

But here’s the thing, the symbolism doesn’t matter if not for the ideals it represents. And we have that side too – the advocates, including a U.S. citizen, who were detained by immigration authorities, and the many regular volunteers, people just like you and me, who are devoting hours and hours of their time to showing up in San Diego Immigration Court for people they’ve never even met.

“I think it’s gut wrenching to realize that you’re looking at somebody who’s lost their rights at this point,” one volunteer said.

Their rights. Your rights. Our rights. This July 4th, spare a moment to reflect upon just how precious they are.

Share your thoughts with us at news@timesofsandiego.com.