A Sonnet for July 4
Now here’s a word for Independence Day
A day our Fathers shook the world around
The words they spoke with thunder did resound
And still inspire people to this day.They said that when the fateful time is nigh
When people wish to break the painful chains
That have too long enslaved their brawn and brains
They want the world to know the reason why.And so they penned a mighty document
In which they spoke of every human’s right
A worthy cause for which they said they’ll fight
And to the world this message then was sent.They spoke these words, yes, many years ago
And many of us live to make it so!
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
