July 3, 2026
Dear Allen Temple Family and Friends,
Well, I've been thinking. I never would have imagined that social media, Facebook specifically, would provide the perfect phrase to describe the tension that exists historically and today for me and perhaps many others. I have never used it on my page, but it has surely become the best descriptor for our lives: IT'S COMPLICATED! As our nation marks the 250th anniversary of its founding, I have found myself wrestling with complicated realities and sitting with complicated emotions. And you know, when I find myself in these places, I brood (figuratively). I write and sometimes I share in hopes that someone else will know, they are not alone.
I suspect there are many who struggle with the historical hypocrisy of some of our American holidays. Whether Columbus Day, Thanksgiving Day or Presidents' Day, the work of survival has always required the ability to "reframe, repurpose, remained and/or reinterpret" meaning and significance in order to find joy even in dissonance. Independence Day is no different. Despite our cookouts, line dances and fireworks, it has NEVER been a simple celebration for those who value truth. We know that while the Declaration of Independence proclaimed life and liberty many of our ancestors remained enslaved. The promise and the practice were not the same. I am usually able to press through the messiness of those moments and "Electric Slide" anyhow.
Yet, recent travel for engagements in the South and beyond have been filled with the icons, symbols and markers of America's Semiquincentennial in a way that prompted reflection. I was especially challenged by a one day convening of some of the nation's leading Black academics, organizers, pastors and leaders hosted by Interfaith 250 in Atlanta at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church.
To settle my own disquieted spirit, I began studying the role of Black people during the Revolutionary War and in doing so was reminded of something so deeply hopeful. Our ancestors understood the true meaning of freedom long before this nation ever extended it to them. Whether siding with the British in hopes of emancipation, fighting alongside the colonies, or seeking liberty wherever it could be found, they demonstrated an unwavering belief that freedom was worth fighting for.
But here it is. I believe - That conviction did not come from their belief in the goodness of government. It came from their belief in the goodness of God.
From the beginning, they carried this almost sacred understanding that they too bore the image of God. As such, possessed an inherent dignity that no law, no institution, and no system of oppression could erase. Even in bondage, they believed they were divinely created for freedom.
This is a legacy I can celebrate truthfully and with gratitude.
They reminded me that loyalty and patriotism should never require us to ignore injustice. And our demand for and pursuit of justice should never require us to give up hope. We are heirs of God and a people with a faith tradition that tells the truth, remembers the past honestly, and continues working toward a future where God's inalienable rights are more closely reflected in this nation's ideals, policies and practices.
So I begin today a bit more settled about all the festivities planned for tomorrow. And on Sunday, I can praise God for those who dreamed beyond the pain and limits of their own generation. I honor those revolutionaries like Mum Bet, James Lafayette, and Salem Poor, whose acts of costly courage I benefit from today. And I recommit to the work that remains, remembering that true freedom is a divine right, God's gift, and God's calling.
It's still complicated but I can pray that God continues to bless America by making us a people who try daily to DO justice, LOVE mercy, and WALK humbly with God.
Now...where them fans at? LOL - Love Y'all! Have a Happy 4th of July!
Blessings and Triumph to You!
