Celebrating July 4 on freedom's frontier
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By Cory J. Lemke
The Spirit of 1776 has proven to be one of the most resilient revolutionary movements in human history, leading to a stable government based on individual freedoms, human rights and the rule of law. In that sense, one may argue the American Revolution has proven to be the most revolutionary movement of all time, premised on the respect and freedom of the individual.
This Fourth of July marks the 245th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence, which formally initiated the American Revolution. The concepts and wording of the manifesto have since inspired other subsequent revolutionaries and their declarations around the world. But many of these intended revolutions have sputtered out or have morphed into realities quite alien from their revolutionaries' intent.
Today, the long-held position of the “Light on the Hill” is being questioned by alternative forms of government which may label themselves as revolutionary but are essentially old wine poured into the cynical bottles of autocracies. These counter examples to liberal democracies boast government action efficiencies in the face of global changes that sweep around with increasing size and rapidity. The current American government looks less capable with highly partisan gridlock while the need for meaningful action increases. Overseas Americans increasingly question if their vote is meaningful.
As American citizens residing in one of Asia's most democratic nations, more than ever, we recognize the importance of exercising our right to vote in American elections. As such, our NGO is fundamentally dedicated to helping every U.S. citizen of voting age to vote in their local and U.S. election. While we are unabashedly proud to be Democrats, we are primarily concerned that all Americans, regardless of political affiliation, participate in their democracy.
The right to vote and to have a say in government is not a given. It must be exercised and protected against those who wish to rule in any guise from top down. The U.S. Forces Korea often describes its mission as "defending Freedom's Frontier." Now, more than ever, that is true. Freedom is not only being challenged from the North but also from many corners of the world.
Contrary to many American expatriates' impressions, it is now easier than ever to vote overseas in American elections. We encourage U.S. citizens to visit
to request their absentee ballots and instructions on how to vote in their specific state. We also encourage Democratic-leaning Americans to join our organization at
and help us spread the word to every American in the Republic of Korea of their voting rights.
We wish all Americans as well as our Korean families, friends and colleagues a happy Fourth of July!
Cory J. Lemke, whose Korean name is Ha Woon-do, is co-chair of Democrats Abroad Republic of Korea. The views expressed in the article are the author's own and do not reflect the editorial direction of The Korea Times.