A Bittersweet 4th

For many of us, this July 4th doesn’t feel like a celebration.

Congress just passed a disastrous budget bill that strips healthcare, food assistance, and basic protections from our most vulnerable neighbors—all while fueling militarism and corporate greed. It’s a gut punch to anyone who believes in dignity, equity, or care.

But as Langston Hughes wrote, we believe in “the land that never has been yet—and yet must be.” We’re marching not to honor the past, but to fight for the future.

Dissent Is Patriotic

That’s why we march.

Not to wave flags, but to wave banners of hope, protest, and purpose.

Not to accept the America we were given, but to build the one we’ve always deserved.

This Week's March Updates

• Fundraising: We launched our campaign and it’s rolling! We raised $760 in the first 24 hours—but we’ve got a long way to go. Our goal is $35,000 by the end of July. →  Pro tip: Asking 1:1 works best. Text 5 friends with a personal ask today!

• Marcher Commitment: We’re reaching out to everyone who filled out the interest form to get firm confirmations. The goal is a solid list of committed marchers by next week.

• Safety: SMASH is enlisting street medics. We’re also developing a safety culture plan: walk protocols, buddy systems, and rapid response for confrontation or escalation.

• Art & Messaging: First round of chant sheets and messaging drafts are in the works. Big idea: we are not the fringe—we are the majority.

• Social & Media: Keep an eye out for marcher videos on social—and record your own reel about why you’re organizing. We need your voice in the feed.

• Housing & Logistics: Still seeking beds in Wilmington, Perry Hall, and DC. Every contact helps—churches, community centers, friends of friends.

This Fourth, we don’t just reflect—we act. We organize. We build. And we believe in an America not yet realized—but still worth fighting for.

In solidarity, 

The We Are America March Comms Team