We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all [people] are created equal,
that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights,
that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That
to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among [People], deriving
their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any
Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of
the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government,
laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in
such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and
Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long
established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and
accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to
suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by
abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed.
Just a couple of thoughts...
"Created equal" is about value. It is not about ability, wealth, or resources.
Years later, some of these some people came together again to build a government that is based on our right to alter it. This (then new) government incorporates our right to change it in annual elections and in numerous other forms. Let's not squander those rights by failing to participate, or fall short of the promise of the founders by discouraging others from participating.
One way people participate in democracy is through assembly and protest. It is noted in The Declaration that experience has shown people often continue to suffer, rather than working to change the forms of government that are failing them. Therefore, if people are willing to subject themselves to tear gassing and potential violence against themselves, it seems likely to me that they truly have some heart-felt grievance that at least needs some sort of voice. If the people expressing that grievance are to be treated as having a value equal to my own, it is on me to listen with an open heart.
Happy Independence Day!
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