On Independence Day (Fourth of July), the United States commemorates the 1776 adoption of the Declaration of Independence, declaring our autonomy from the British Empire. This year Independence Day is on Friday and for many this means a 3-day weekend, the perfect time to schedule vacation, or extra pay for working on the holiday. Many of us take these and other privileges for granted, not considering that we experience a level of political and social freedom most of the world does not.The second sentence of the Declaration proclaims, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” This passage represents a political and social standard of justice to which our country strives. Among the human rights American citizens enjoy are rights to education, food, health, housing, work, and the procurement of basic needs and services.The hopes of eduKenya for the people of the Mathare slum mirror the hopes of America’s forefathers for a new country. Our inspiration is rooted in the command, found in Micah 6:8, “Act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God.” The ministry and call of Jesus is our motivation, for He brings justice to the poor and needy; takes up the cause of the oppressed; and heals the brokenhearted (Luke 4:18).As Christ followers, we believe dependence on Him brings true freedom and an expectation that we extend liberty and justice to others. “Jesus teaches that God’s justice means a determination and commitment to aid the oppressed. God’s justice favors those who are wretched, deprived, poor, and needy….and that justice finds expression in mercy.” (Mary Craig, 2004)This Independence Day, eduKenya is grateful for the partnerships we have with people who celebrate God’s justice through obedience as they extend liberty through mercy to those living in extreme poverty in the Mathare Slum. And we honor people everywhere who, enjoying freedom in Christ, use this privilege to serve others humbly in love (Galatians 5:13).Asante Sana!Kathie Bishop FriedeleduKenya Communications & Marketing Director