July 4, 2026 🇺🇸

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“The modern patriotism, the true patriotism, the only rational patriotism, is loyalty to the Nation all the time, loyalty to the Government when it deserves it.”  - Mark Twain

In 1963, Phil Ochs penned "Power and the Glory," a poignant expression of patriotism that not only celebrates the spirit of America but also illuminates the ongoing challenges faced in safeguarding its foundational ideals. This powerful anthem serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in patriotism, urging listeners to reflect on their own roles in the continuous pursuit of justice and equality.

As we engage with Ochs' message in this, our 250th year of independence, we are inspired to channel our love for our country into local activism. In this spirit, we can unite to uphold the values that define us, recognizing that the journey toward a more just society is a collective effort, one in which each of us has a vital part to play. Together, we can embody the optimistic vision of a nation that not only cherishes its ideals but actively strives to realize them for all its citizens.

Ochs' original draft of the song contained these lyrics, which were not in the published version. Its sentiments perfectly capture the current state of our nation.

But our land is still troubled by men who have to hate
They twist away our freedom and twist away our fate

Fear is their weapon and treason is their cry

We can stop them if we try!

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🌈 Mt. Horeb Pride Walk A Success

Tomorrow evening we highlight another candidate for Wisconsin Governor at Brix for a friendly community conversation.

➡️ Hosting these events does not constitute an endorsement by Brix, Main Street Action, or SWWAP. Our goal is to create space for thoughtful civic conversation, and we have invited all gubernatorial candidates to participate in this series.

For this event, we’ll be talking with Joel Brennan. Joel led the Wisconsin Department of Administration and previously led the Greater Milwaukee Committee and Discovery World, the state’s largest science museum. He’s a father of two, a little league coach, and a good cribbage player.

Future Community Conversations

For this event, we’ll be talking with State Representative Francesca Hong, candidate for Wisconsin Governor, who is competing in the Democratic primary this August. Francesca is a chef, restaurant worker, single mom, and state representative from Madison.

For this event, we’ll be talking with Mandela Barnes, candidate for Wisconsin Governor, who is competing in the Democratic primary this August. Mandela Barnes is a former Lieutenant Governor of Wisconsin and former state legislator from Milwaukee.

For this event, we’ll be talking with David Crowley, candidate for Wisconsin Governor, who is competing in the Democratic primary this August. Crowley has served as the Milwaukee County Executive since 2020. He previously represented Wisconsin's 17th Assembly district from 2017 to 2020;

JOHN NICHOLS WILL SPEAK IN MT. HOREB

On July 15, at 7 PM the Dane Dems will hold their monthly meeting in Mt. Horeb at the Community Center. The event will feature John Nichols, executive editor of the The Nation Magazine and associate editor of The Capital Times. Mark your calendars. More on this event in the next newsletter.

RULINGS FROM SUPREMELY CORRUPT COURT

SWWAP newsletters feature a new series of videos highlighting America's first 250 years. The project is spearheaded by Heather Cox Richardson. The following highlights Thurgood Marshall, and his courageous leadership as an advocate for voting and civil rights in America.

"Where you see wrong or inequality or injustice, speak out, because this is your country. This is your democracy. Make it. Protect it. Pass it on." - Thurgood Marshall

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