No, not that 420.
Our 420 is the total number of articles published since we began our thought leadership series in 2018. Hundreds of columns authored by our team and by our colleagues as guest columnists. Thousands of hours thinking and writing. Hundreds of thousands of readers.
Freedom of speech is fundamental to our democracy and is the banner under which all people can express themselves in this country that we cherish. The truths that are the bedrock of America last longer than any term of office, and those are what we honor this July 4.
The Declaration of Independence was a remarkable act. The people of the 13 colonies had the audacity to challenge the authority of the King and the power of an empire. It meant treason and certainly meant war. It was bold and it has inspired other peoples and states around the world.
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men 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 Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed…”
The nonprofit National Constitution Center has a wealth of resources about our America’s founding documents and founding leaders. It is worth a moment of reflection to read the words and listen to their stories.
As I reflect on all that we have written in eight years, I am inspired by the work of nonprofit leaders whose bold commitment to their missions have made lasting impacts on the communities they serve. They are living the truth that all are created equal and are working tirelessly to ensure all have access to their programs and services.
In 2018, we published a column about the Donor Bill of Rights where we are reminded that philanthropy is a voluntary action for the common good. Public charities are built for the common good and the American nonprofit sector is unique in the world for its size, scope, and impact.
I don’t know if our founders envisioned such a system when they declared independence but the sector today is massive — 1.4 million 501(c)(3) organizations with 12.3 million employees (~10% of private sector employment) and 64 million board members and volunteers. The economic impact was $1.4 trillion in 2023 or 5.2% of GDP.
While there are many ways to honor America 250, one consideration is to donate to a charity that is meaningful to you, especially given the critical role the nonprofit sector plays in our democracy.
Happy Birthday, America.
And with this post, it’s now 421.
