Q: Which birthday will the United States celebrate on July 4, 2001?
A: Americans this year will mark 225 years of independence on the Fourth of July. Fireworks, parades and picnics have become a national pastime on Independence Day as Americans from all walks of life commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Patriotism runs high as people gather together on front porches and enjoy backyard barbeques to celebrate all that’s represented by the red, white and blue. Whether a lifelong citizen of the United States or a recent immigrant to this country, the American people hold a common bond enumerated by the founders of this great nation more than two centuries ago at the second Continental Congress in Philadelphia. Spelled out as self-evident truths near the beginning of the historical document — life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness — Americans from coast to coast owe thanks to those in uniform who defend these freedoms, especially the U.S. service men and women who have lost life or limb to spread democracy and promote peace around the world.
Q: What is the 'Birthday Wishes to America' project?
A: A joint venture developed by the U.S. Postal Service and the Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum in Washington, D.C., the 'Birthday Wishes to America' project invites Americans to design, write and send their own personal birthday wishes to America. The campaign was launched in U.S. schools in April, inviting classrooms across the country to participate in the letter-writing event. A birthday celebration in the works normally gets people pumped up with anticipation. And when it’s the 225th birthday party for the United States, it is fitting to celebrate and consider what makes America the best place on earth to live. Putting pencil to paper promotes literacy and creativity among our youth. And it can prompt a more thoughtful appreciation for self-government and American democracy by even the most seasoned letter-writer. Jotting down even a simple birthday message provides a good opportunity for folks, young and old, to reflect upon the freedoms Americans are privileged to enjoy. Send birthday greetings to: Birthday Wishes to America, c/o National Postal Museum, P.O. Box 44100, Washington, D.C., 20026-4100. The postal service plans to publicize randomly chosen birthday wishes and tally on its web site the number of birthday greetings received by July 4, 2001. As the calendar closes in on the Fourth of July, many people get itchy for an end to the school year, family vacations and the carefree days of summer. Let’s also remember on Independence Day to count America’s blessings and give thanks to the personal freedoms and liberties too often taken for granted.
