When our Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence 249 years ago, they didn’t do it for clout. They did it knowing they were signing their own death warrants. They risked everything—land, family, future—because they believed in something bigger than themselves: the idea that liberty is worth dying for.
Today, we honor that courage with TikTok dances, viral trends, and backyard cookouts. Don’t get me wrong—I love fireworks and a good hot dog as much as the next guy. But let’s not forget that July 4 isn’t just a party. It’s a reminder. A warning. And for my generation, a wake-up call.
Because here’s the hard truth: We’ve inherited more freedom than any generation in history—and we’re wasting it.
We scroll past headlines about the First Amendment being shredded, biological reality being redefined, and unborn children being discarded like trash—and we shrug. We treat patriotism like a costume we wear on the Fourth and toss back in the closet on the Fifth. We’ve got college kids burning the flag while enjoying the very freedoms it represents. Some even call the American Revolution “colonial oppression,” as if they’d prefer to be ruled by a king who didn’t even have WiFi.
It’s embarrassing. And it’s dangerous.
We’re told America is the problem. That it’s broken. That it’s irredeemable. But here’s what your professors won’t tell you: the American experiment—flawed and imperfect—is still the greatest leap forward for human freedom in world history. The problem isn’t America. The problem is a generation that doesn’t know how to defend it.
We think we’re “the resistance” because we post a snarky infographic. But real resistance isn’t virtual. It’s sacrificial. Our Founders didn’t risk their lives for “likes”— they risked their lives for liberty. The least we can do is live like we deserve it.
That starts with knowing what we’re fighting for.
Freedom isn’t just an abstract idea. It’s the ability to speak your mind without fear, to worship your God without compromise, to raise your family how you see fit, and to choose your leaders without asking a king. In America, power comes from the people. That’s still revolutionary.
But it only works if we show up.
The 2024 election is behind us, but the fight for America is far from over. Every school board meeting, city council vote, and legislative session is a battlefield for our values. Politics doesn’t end on Election Day—it starts there. Freedom isn’t preserved by spectators. It takes engagement, boldness, and people willing to show up when it matters most.
So Gen Z, here’s your Independence Day challenge: Be worthy of the liberty you’ve inherited.
Don’t just grill burgers and post flag selfies. Read the Declaration. Study the Constitution. Grow a spine. Speak the truth. And when the moment comes—whether it’s at the ballot box or in the battlefield of ideas—show up like it matters.
Because it does.
The Founders gave us a nation. The question now is whether we’re strong enough, brave enough, and bold enough to keep it.
And if that doesn’t light a fire under you—go re-read the part where they pledged “their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor.”
Then ask yourself what you’re willing to give.
Happy Independence Day. Let’s start acting like we earned it.
Brilyn Hollyhand is a 19-year-old political commentator, bestselling author of “One Generation Away: Why Now is the Time to Restore American Freedom”, and host of “The Brilyn Hollyhand Show.” For more of his hot takes you can follow him on socials @BrilynHollyhand or visit BrilynHollyhand.com.
The views and opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and do not reflect the official position of the Daily Caller News Foundation.
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