Happy Fourth of July, friend,

Of course, this Fourth of July is quite different than years past. Usually, I look forward to celebrating the Fourth with my friends, family, and fellow Marylanders at parades around the district.

But this year, as we practice social distancing to ensure everyone’s safe and healthy, we won’t be able to celebrate in the way we normally would, but I want you to know that I’m with you in spirit.

I also want those in our community who are fighting back against the systems of oppression that persist in our society to ensure all Americans enjoy the same rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness to know that I’m with you, too.

When we fight together for our shared values and the democratic principles our country was founded on, we fulfill the Founding Fathers’ vision for our great nation.

Happy holidays. Your friend,

Dutch