The Declaration of Independence has undeniably had a profound impact on how our lives today and the freedoms we are able to enjoy. For instance, we cannot be punished for expressing our freedom of speech, freedom to assemble, ability to vote for our country’s leaders, choose marriageable partners, decide whether or not to get an education and so forth. Essentially, the way we lead our lives is chosen by us and only us a lone. This essential document thus laid the foundation for a society that would allow its citizens to enjoy their “inalienable rights”, which are those rights that cannot be taken away by a higher authority such as the government.
While it is true that we enjoy such rights today, the same cannot be said for all the different eras up until this point since the passing of the document. Racism and subordination of minorities was strong in this country, and fueled many tensions among various groups. Thus these inalienable rights were not ensured for all citizens except for white males, underestimating the powerful statements made in the declaration. If all men were created equal, then how come African Americans were forced to labor on cotton fields, while white males controlled the decisions and policies of the country? How come women were denied the opportunity to go to college? This document, though brilliant, was still never the idealistic method by which the country was run. And the same could still be said for today’s society. While we have moved much closer towards following all of its guidelines and principles, racist attitudes and gender inequality (particularly in the workplace) continue to have an undeniable presence in our society. And it seems as though it will continue on this way for many years to come.
