This year at our Fourth of July celebrations, we should be aware of a concern our country is enduring. Across the country, there are civil demonstrations relating to the Israel-Hamas war occurring.

The United States was founded on freedom of religion, not rejection of selected faith communities. Also, acts of prejudice against any minorities should be strongly rejected.

The time for peaceful solutions to this ongoing cancer is now. We need strong leadership in legislative efforts and educational programs that equip students with strong moral guidelines in their relationships with all people, regardless of race or religion.

With the true understanding of the principles our country was founded upon, we can then enjoy the friendship of friends and participants at all the civic events that the holiday offers.

Parades, cookouts and fireworks, some spectacular, have been the traditions we have all enjoyed over the past many years.