THE ISSUE
Public officials don’t always adhere to the principles upon which this nation founded more than 230 years ago.

OUR VIEW
We all need to reflect on what it means to live in a free society and act against the forces that trample our liberties.

SPEAK UP
Is our commitment to promoting freedom as strong now as it was in 1776? Tell us what you think of this by leaving a comment below. You can also e-mail your comment here. Or leave a voice message at (630) 368-8882.

Given the problems this country has faced recently, we Americans have a few questions on our minds: How can we continue making ends meet? What kind of future will our children have? Will we ever resolve our most pressing challenges?

Although those are important questions, they are secondary to a few fundamental questions fa our nation prepares to celebrate the 233rd anniversary of its founding: Do we fear our government, or does our government fear us? What does it mean to be a member of a free society? Is our commitment to promoting liberty as strong now as it was in 1776?

In describing the rights we enjoy as free people, the Declaration of Independence claims, “That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” Denouncing the abuses of King George III, the document further states, “He has erected a multitude of new offices and sent hither swarms of officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.”

Are our local, state and national governments exercising powers to which you — the governed — never consented? Do bureaucrats harass you and try to take whatever you have?

For more than three years, Wheaton resident Mark Stern battled Community Unit School District 200 officials in his attempt to get a copy of former Superintendent Gary Catalani’s contract. It took a lawsuit by Stern and a ruling by the Illinois Supreme Court earlier this year to put this document in public view — where it belongs.

If you believe you’re looked upon by public officials as nothing but an ATM, that some government entities are not transparent or that your life is controlled by a maze of rules, it’s time to take action. Thomas Paine said, “The best defense against usurpatory government is an assertive citizenry.” We can’t wait for government to reform itself — we must reform it.

Despite whatever other issues we’re wrestling with these days, preserving freedom is our No. 1 priority. Let’s all reflect on how to achieve this as we enjoy our Fourth of July weekend.