LETTER: A diverse patriot corps gave us what we celebrate on July 4

To Ozaukee Press:

Democracy is a system of government where supreme power is vested in the people. It is the system of government that has allowed our country to exist and prosper since 1776.

On July 4, 2026, we will be celebrating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. We also need to remember and honor the contributions of our patriotic ancestors. Almost 8,000 soldiers and sailors of African descent fought with American patriots in the Revolutionary War. These include Crispus Attucks, who died in the Boston Massacre, and Salem Poor, who showed valor at Bunker Hill.

Members of the Oneida, Tuscarora, Catawba and Stockbridge-Munsee Nations served directly under George Washington at Valley Forge and were exceptional fighters and scouts. As many as 10,000 soldiers and sailors of Hispanic heritage fought for the Revolutionary cause, many under the leadership of Bernardo de Galvez.

Individuals of Asian descent also fought in the Continental Army and served in the Navy. Haym Salomon, of Polish-Jewish descent, provided financial advice and expertise to raise the funds necessary to forward the American cause. The contributions of Casimir Pulaski, Thaddeus Kosciuszko, Baron Von Steuben, and the Marquis de Lafayette are documented and honored.

Let’s also remember the contributions of our female patriotic ancestors. Betsy Ross, Martha Washington, Abigail Adams, Molly Pitcher, Phillis Wheatley, Deborah Sampson, Tyonajanegan of the Oneida nation and Sybil Ludington are well known as women who supported the American cause. We also honor those anonymous women who ran the shops and farms and managed their family responsibilities while their patriotic fighters were gone.

All of the above worked together to establish a free and independent United States. Right now we have groups, including those of the soialist and communist philosophies, looking to pull apart our society. On the 250th anniversary of the founding of the American democracy, let’s remember the contributions of our patriotic ancestors. And let’s also remember the definition of democracy. That is the American way.

Karen Meador

Port Washington