Those who bravely fought for our independence in the United States were not fighting for liberty and justice for all. Our national economy and infrastructure grew from the labor of enslaved people, and the rights and freedoms of people of color and women were not protected in our founding documents.  

Abigail Adams’ 1776 admonition to her husband to “remember the ladies” when crafting the new government was ignored by John Adams and the other Framers. Women are not referenced in the Declaration of Independence, and the line “All men are created equal” truly meant men. The Constitution also failed to initially recognize women, and while it has been amended to extend voting rights and freedoms to women and Americans of all racial backgrounds, equality remains elusive.

While we celebrate our independence this July 4th, let’s also remember those who are still not truly free or equal. Millions of Americans continue to face discrimination based on their identity. This Independence Day, let us renew our fight to ensure our government recognizes that “all men and women are created equal” and should be able to pursue rights to life, liberty, and happiness equally.  

Take Action! Learn more about ways to formally include women in the Constitution.