As we approach another July 4th, I find myself reflecting on the true meaning of this day. Independence Day is not just a time for barbecues and fireworks. It’s a solemn reminder of the brave men who, in 1776, declared their independence from a distant power that didn’t understand or respect their needs and aspirations.

The signers of the Declaration of Independence were representatives of 13 colonies, each with its own unique identity and interests. They were not founding a new country, but rather asserting their right to govern themselves and form 13 independent, self-governing nation-states. They were standing up to a power that sought to dictate rather than represent—a power that ignored their voices in favor of its own agenda.

Today, as we Texans look at the state of our union, we find ourselves in a similar situation. The federal government has become a behemoth, far removed from the federation of states envisioned by our Founding Fathers. It has become a power that seeks to dictate rather than represent. It has become a power that ignores the voices of the states in favor of its own agenda.

This is not the vision of the Founding Fathers. This is not the vision that led to the Declaration of Independence. And I believe, with every fiber of my being, that if those brave men and women who signed the Declaration were here today, they would be standing with us. They would be standing with the Texas Nationalist Movement.

The success of the TNM is not just about Texas. It’s about reclaiming the spirit of 1776 and 1836. It’s about standing up for the right of self-determination. It’s about demanding a government that understands and represents us and puts our needs first.

So, this July 4th, let’s not just remember the past. Let’s look to the future. Let’s recommit ourselves to the principles of independence and self-determination. Let’s pledge our lives, fortunes, and sacred honor to the cause of Texas independence.

This Independence Day, let’s not just remember history. Let’s make history. Let’s stand up for our rights, for our freedom, for our independence. Let’s stand up for Texas. And let’s make our voices heard.

This July 4th, let’s not celebrate. Let’s recommit. Let’s recommit to the spirit of 1776, to the cause of Texas independence, and to the fight for our future. Because the spirit of 1776 is not just a memory. It’s a call to action. And it’s a call we must answer.