Celebrating Independence Day In 2025

As I stood on the grounds of the U.S. Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda celebrating the 249th anniversary of independence for the United States of America, I was brought to tears and had to collect myself before becoming too emotional at an event that was put together by the U.S. Ambassador, Eric W. Kneedler, and his wife, Kristin, and the wonderful staff of the embassy to help bring other American citizens throughout Kigali together for an evening of food, fun, networking, and dancing. 

But I had to do some quick self-reflection and ask myself WHY I became so emotional hearing the national anthem sung so beautifully, and seeing our servicemen carry our flag and retire it for the evening in a beautiful honorary ceremony, and listening to the ambassador's speech about the history of America’s independence and the hopes for what’s to come.

Upon reflection, it is clear to me why I was so emotional on that beautiful evening surrounded by other American expats, U.S. & Rwandan service members, local Rwandan citizens, U.S. Embassy staff, and my husband. It suddenly hit me that I had to leave my own country and move away from family and friends and everything familiar to truly feel safe, seen, respected, and celebrated as a Black woman. And more importantly, for the first time EVER…I truly fear for the state of my home country now. 

The realization of my new reality was very heavy and devastating to me in that moment as I fought back my tears. My fear was if I allowed myself to start crying…I probably wouldn’t be able to stop and would surely cause a scene. The true gravity of the fact I felt such a strong fear of staying in my own home country and had to move across the world to feel safe as a Black woman came swirling around me. So I took some sips of my drink and collected myself so I could make it through the rest of the official ceremony before the festivities began. And in the end…we had a wonderful time and also learned Ambassador Kneedler is a big fan of my husband (Dana Dane) and classic Hip Hop (hence our VIP invitation to the event) - who knew?! 

As a law student who is graduating in December 2025, I now find myself questioning every constitutional law and legal precedent I’ve learned over the past three years. I wonder how the current rollback of well-established civil rights will result in the forming of a new nation…and not one that includes the rights and protections for people who look like me. The very foundation and face of our country is changing right before our eyes…real time. And NOT in a good way!!

This is frightening…and I’m seriously worried that all of the work I’ve done throughout my combined 30+ year career in Human Resources and DEIB to ensure ALL employees feel included and that they belong was all for naught! 

I pray that isn’t the case…but only time will tell. 

In the meantime…Happy Independence Day, America! 

I’m continuing to root for you from afar…where I feel SAFE and CELEBRATED…not TOLERATED. 

July Observances:

• Social Wellness Month: Highlights the importance of nurturing healthy relationships and building strong social connections. Fostering meaningful interactions supports mental and emotional well-being, reduces stress, and creates a sense of belonging both at work and in our personal lives.

• French American Heritage Month: Honors the lasting contributions of French immigrants and their descendants to U.S. history, culture, and society. It’s a time to recognize the rich traditions, values, and influence of French heritage in shaping American identity.

• July 4 - Independence Day: A US federal holiday that celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The original thirteen American colonies declared independence from Britain and established themselves as a new nation known as the United States of America.

• July 5–6 - Ashura (sundown to sundown): An Islamic holiday commemorating the day Noah left the ark and the day Allah saved Moses from the Egyptians.

• July 7 - Caribbean Community Day: The day was chosen to commemorate the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas, which established CARICOM on July 4, 1973. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) consists of 20 states throughout the Caribbean, of which 15 are member states and five associate members.

• July 8-9 - The Martyrdom of the Bab: A day when Bahá’ís observe the anniversary of the Báb’s execution in Tabriz, Iran, in 1850.

• July 10 - Black Women’s Equal Pay Day: The aim is to raise awareness about the wider-than-average pay gap between Black women and White men. Black women are paid 62 cents for every dollar paid to White men.

• July 10 - Asalha Puja, or Dharma Day: A celebration of Buddha’s first teachings.

• July 14 - International Nonbinary People’s Day: Aimed at raising awareness and organizing around the issues faced by nonbinary people around the world while celebrating their contributions.

• July 18 - Nelson Mandela International Day: Launched on July 18, 2009, in recognition of Nelson Mandela’s birthday via unanimous decision of the UN General Assembly. It was inspired by a call Mandela made a year earlier for the next generation to take on the burden of leadership in addressing the world’s social injustices in which he stated, “It is in your hands now.” It is more than a celebration of Mandela’s life and legacy; it is a global movement to honor his life’s work and to change the world for the better.

• July 23 - The birthday of Haile Selassie I: The former emperor of Ethiopia, whom the Rastafarians consider to be their savior.

• July 26 - Disability Independence Day: celebrating the anniversary of the 1990 signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

• July 30 - International Day of Friendship: proclaimed in 2011 by the UN General Assembly with the idea that friendship between peoples, countries, cultures, and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities.

• July 31 - National Intern Day: Recognizes the hard work and potential of interns across industries. It’s an opportunity for organizations to show appreciation, highlight talent, and invest in the next generation of professionals.

Until next month... Be well and protect your peace!