Preparations have been underway for years to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. But for many, this moment is less about celebration than reflection. At a time when the democratic institutions on which our country is supposedly built are being assaulted, eroded, and dismantled, many are asking difficult questions about the future of our democracy and about who gets to define what it means to be American.

Those questions have taken on renewed urgency as long-standing constitutional principles, such as the right to vote and the birthright citizenship protections of the 14th Amendment, are challenged by our nation’s highest institutions. When people are made to question whether they belong, whether their voices matter, or whether they are fully recognized as members of our democracy, it is no surprise that trust begins to erode.

After all, the United States has a long history of moral contradictions. When Thomas Jefferson wrote that “all men are created equal,” he did so while enslaving hundreds of people, including 14-year-old bodyservant Robert Hemmings. Our nation’s history reminds us that our founding ideals have never been fully realized on their own; they have always required ordinary people to challenge injustice, demand accountability, and push America to live up to its promise.

Here in New Jersey, The Fund for New Jersey’s grantees continue to demonstrate that democracy is strongest when it is inclusive. From advancing policies that expand the well-being of children and families to protecting the right to vote, our state has shown that investing in people and communities strengthens us all. But those gains cannot be taken for granted.

That is why preparing for the 2030 Census is so important. As Erik Cruz Morales of the League of Women Voters of New Jersey and I recently wrote in an op-ed, a complete and accurate Census does more than determine federal funding and congressional representation. It affirms that every community counts and deserves to be seen, heard, and represented. Preparing for a successful Census begins years before the first questionnaire is mailed, and it requires the commitment of government, philanthropy, nonprofits, and community leaders alike.

Democracy is not self-sustaining, nor is it guaranteed. It depends on people who are willing to pay attention when constitutional principles are tested and to bear witness when our neighbors are marginalized and their identities are questioned. It is our duty to hold our government and elected officials accountable for upholding the values they are sworn to protect. As we commemorate our nation’s 250th anniversary, let us not only celebrate our history but also confront it honestly. It’s up to us whether the next 250 years bring us closer to the promise of America or further from it.

Warm regards,

Brandon McKoy

President

Fund for New Jersey