If you want people to understand the importance of this day, then don't use the modern insulting label that only describes a date. Use a name that describes the reason for the holiday, It's not just 'the fourth'.
364 days of the year almost half of the people observe and consent to government dependence. Let us recognize and honor those who
cling to and defend Independence.

It was interesting today to note that one of the news items on my local talk radio station was the host - normally a pretty level-headed guy - going off about fireworks and their dangers. The laws in my State are like most States - no aerial fireworks. And so every 4th of July I enjoy the sights of aerial fireworks from those who reject the notion that the State can or should reject Expression tied to the most fundamental of ideas and movements: the birth of our Nation and its Founding upon principles of rights and limited government.

But then I thought to myself: How many of those actually celebrating this momentous holiday actually know what they are celebrating? Our public schools don't teach the Declaration except as a footnote in history - let alone get into its importance or its genius. These same schools gloss over our Constitution and instead focus on the myriad Supreme Court decisions which undermine it.

Me? I want to see fireworks, but more importantly, I want to celebrate Independence Day because it is truly a day to celebrate the true spirit of mankind.

Since I have never experienced a truly, completely, rational form of freedom, it is difficult for me to honor Independence Day. What I can honor, however, is that a fairly small group of intelligent, brave men invented and put into action the closest thing to true Independence, that is to say, Freedom that the world has ever known. I think that The Road To Freedom Day, might be a more appropriate title for the day.

Yes--on freedom and independence from an exploitive foreign colonial power, though it could be argued that they "created" the new territory as their own offspring for purposes of resources and power.

No--on labeling it "Sabbath", a religious term and ritual from one historical culture steeped in one brand of religious mysticism and practice. Also, Sabbath is once a week while July4 is once a year. We need a better word. Holiday, Fest, Celebration, Dedication, Jubilee, tribute, homage... there must be a name we can find, preferably shorter than Commemoration. I lean towards Jubilee.

I imagine they would make a production and trade amendment very clear, like the Fourth Amendment, spelling out exactly what it means. Sadly, I suspect we would not follow a production and trade amendment even if it were in the Constitution.