BALTIMORE – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) released the following statement in advance of July 4, 2017, Independence Day.

“Each year on Independence Day we mark the heart of the summer season with a celebration of our country, our people and our freedoms. Independence Day provides an opportunity for all Americans to display pride, spirit, and respect for each other and the country that binds us together as one community. This is a time to treat our fellow Americans as we would like to be treated, with dignity and liberty for all.

“John Winthrop envisioned America as a ‘city upon a hill’ that all other nations could look to for leadership and inspiration – a task we should not take lightly. It is our responsibility to safeguard these values for all future generations of Americans to enjoy.

“America is not only our home but an aspirational idea of freedom and equality. There is so much good that is America, yet sexism, racism, bullying and bigotry continue to trouble our society. Threats to our cherished liberties are especially profound in today’s political environment. Our position as a global leader is constantly tested, as demonstrated by Russian interference in our election process and our rising diplomatic tensions with China and North Korea. At home, inflamed partisanship drives people to extreme viewpoints and away from reasonable debate. Despite all this, our democratic institutions must remain resolute in fulfilling their primary obligation: serving the American people.

“I trust that the patriotism and unity we celebrate this Fourth of July brings with it a renewed sense of common purpose and determination. America’s birthday is a time to rededicate ourselves to doing what we can as individuals and as a community to ‘create a more perfect Union.’ Independence Day is far greater in scope and message than celebrations with fireworks and hamburgers would suggest – it is a national exhibition of what makes America remarkable and all that we want it to be.

“To my fellow Marylanders and all Americans: Happy Fourth of July. Happy birthday, America!”