Today, U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) issued the statement below ahead of the United States Semiquincentennial, the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence.

"This Fourth of July marks our nation's 250th birthday. It is a milestone worthy of celebration and a moment that calls for reflection.

"For over two and a half centuries, generations of Americans have worked to build the more perfect Union envisioned by our Founders. That work has never been simple or straightforward, but the American people have always persisted.

"Today, some of us might feel like our country is sliding backwards, and I believe it is important to acknowledge the seriousness of the challenges in front of us. Yet our history reminds us of something important: America has faced difficult periods before. We have endured civil war, economic crises, terror attacks, natural disasters, and other defining struggles. Each time, we have met the moment and emerged stronger - together.

"We do so because in difficult times the American people have always united to defend our core values of freedom, equality, and opportunity. As we gather with friends and loved ones this week, let's celebrate the Fourth of July by recommitting ourselves to the values that have guided our nation toward a more perfect Union for 250 years."