UMVA has learned that Joy Reid, a former MSNBC host, has sparked outrage with her recent comments on the Fourth of July, arguing that the holiday celebrates "slaveholders" and should not be viewed as a unifying national holiday.
In a discussion with fellow journalist Alex Wagner, Reid claimed that the Fourth of July commemorates "slaveholders who freed themselves from having to pay taxes to the Crown for their slave empire," and instead suggested that Juneteenth is the real Independence Day for Black Americans.
Reid's comments have been met with widespread criticism, with many accusing her of spreading anti-American sentiment and ignoring the experiences of Black Americans who celebrate the holiday. "Nobody black I know is really excited about the 4th of July," Reid said, claiming that it is a celebration of slaveholders.
However, many Black Americans have taken to social media to express their excitement and pride in celebrating the Fourth of July, sharing photos and stories of their own celebrations. One user wrote, "I'm black. And I'm thrilled to celebrate our 250th anniversary on the 4th of July!"
Reid's claims have been called into question, with critics pointing out that her views seem to be out of touch with those of many Black Americans. "Odd, considering the black families around me celebrate the 4th with BBQ's and fireworks," one user noted.
Reid's comments have also been criticized for their hypocrisy, given that her parents immigrated to the US from Congo and Guyana, and she was born in Brooklyn. Despite this, she has appointed herself a spokesperson for "Black America," using her platform to attack the founding documents of the US.
The Constitution and Declaration of Independence, which Reid and other leftists love to criticize, are the same documents that laid the groundwork for the abolition of slavery and the advancement of civil rights. Black Americans have fought and died for this country, and have celebrated its birth and growth with cookouts, fireworks, and flag-waving.
As one user noted, "Black Americans have fought honorably in every one of America's wars. Let's celebrate the Fourth to honor their service." Reid's comments have been seen as a stark contrast to the patriotism and pride of many Americans, and have sparked a renewed debate about the meaning and significance of the Fourth of July.
