The Fourth of July: A Celebration of Freedom and Sovereignty in Our Shared History

As we approach another Fourth of July, a day synonymous with freedom and independence, it is essential to reflect on this nation’s complex and nuanced history from the perspective of its first inhabitants – the Native Americans. The concepts of freedom, sovereignty, and unity hold a unique significance for Native Americans, who have a rich history intertwined with the growth and development of the United States.

The Concepts of Freedom Apply to All of Us

The concept of freedom celebrated on Independence Day, is deeply ingrained in our culture. Long before the arrival of European settlers, Indigenous peoples lived freely across the continent, governing themselves according to their customs and traditions. This freedom was not without its challenges, as the arrival of settlers brought about significant changes. However, the resilience of tribes in the face of adversity is a testament to their enduring spirit of freedom.

A Pursuit for Self-Governance

Sovereignty, the authority of a state to govern itself, is a concept that has been at the heart of our history. Despite the numerous treaties signed between Native American tribes and the U.S. government, many of which were broken or ignored, the fight for sovereignty has remained a constant struggle. The U.S. government’s failure to uphold these treaties has often undermined Native American sovereignty but has not extinguished the desire for self-governance among Native American tribes.

Uniting Our Homelands

Unity is a fundamental principle of our culture, often symbolized by the circle or hoop. Native American tribes have a long history of coming together to protect their people and lands in adversity. This unity is not limited to individual tribes but extends to the broader Native American community. The unity displayed by Native Americans, historically and in the present day, serves as a powerful example for the rest of the nation.

Influential Freedom Leaders 

As we delve deeper into the significance of Independence Day, it is crucial to highlight the contributions of influential Native American leaders who have embodied the principles of freedom, sovereignty, and unity. Through their actions and words, these leaders have shaped the course of Native American history and continue to inspire future generations.

• Canasatego, an Onondaga leader of the Iroquois Confederacy, strongly advocated unity. His words influenced the formation of the United States democratic principles. He once told a group of colonists, “We are a powerful Confederacy, and by your observing the same methods our wise forefathers have taken, you will acquire fresh strength and power.”
• Tanacharison, also known as the Half King, was a Seneca leader who was pivotal in the events leading up to the French and Indian War. His actions underscore the complex relationship between Native American tribes and European powers, highlighting the struggle for sovereignty in the face of foreign encroachment. (Dramatized in the cover image)
• Yellow Wolf, a Nez Perce warrior, represents the fight for freedom. His participation in the Nez Perce War, a conflict sparked by a treaty that threatened to take away their ancestral lands, underscores the lengths to which Native Americans have gone to protect their freedom.
• Standing Bear, a Ponca chief, symbolizes Native American civil rights. His landmark case in 1879, Standing Bear v. Crook, led to a historic decision recognizing Native Americans as “persons within the meaning of the law,” a significant step towards acknowledging Native American sovereignty.
• Henry Chee Dodge, the last official Head Chief of the Navajo Tribe and the first Tribal Chairman of the Navajo Nation represents the transition from traditional leadership to modern governance. His leadership during a time of change demonstrates the adaptability of Native American tribes in their ongoing quest for sovereignty.
• Wilma Mankiller, the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, embodies the spirit of unity. She worked tirelessly to improve her people’s lives and unite them in the face of adversity. Her leadership serves as a reminder that unity is a powerful tool for change.

These leaders, each in their unique way, have contributed to the concepts of freedom, sovereignty, and unity that we celebrate on Independence Day. Their stories remind us that these principles are not just the foundation of the United States but are also deeply rooted in the history and culture of its first inhabitants. As we celebrate Independence Day, let us remember these leaders and the enduring legacy they have left for all Americans.

As we celebrate the Fourth of July, we must remember that we are not just a part of America’s past but its present and future. Native Americans have served this country in many ways, from fighting in its wars to contributing to its cultural and societal development. We will continue to love and serve this country and all its citizens in all our unique ways. Right now, when we work together, we can save this country and shape its future.

The Fourth of July is a time for all Americans, including Native Americans, to reflect on freedom, sovereignty, and unity. It is a time to remember our shared history, acknowledge lessons learned, and look forward to a future where all Americans, regardless of our heritage, can enjoy the freedoms that this day symbolizes. This is a time to celebrate!