In a message dated 7/8/00 8:29:36 AM EST, jt1161@earthlink.net writes: << What is important is that all the inequities, atrocities, slaughter and slavery which have taken place at various times in every part of this globe do not justify hatred for another race, nor indifference to the benefits and freedoms we enjoy in the United States. Independence Day is not a celebration of what's wrong with society, but is for the hope of freedom, liberty and happiness of the future. If you don't believe this is the land of freedom and opportunity why do you think so many others wish to come to the U.S.? Maybe one of those families who can't come to this country because of immigration quotas would be glad to change places with you. Jeffrey S. Owens Sorry for this off topic message on the list, but no other subject is more important to me. I felt a public response necessary. >> I could not have said it better, you put across some very good points on the slavery issue, not one of us has avoided it in some time or another, nor or in our genealogy research. I think it is time to let it go and begin a new , and above all stop using it as an excuse for ones behaviour, it is getting very old. If everyone would take the attitude as this and I do practice what I am preaching, I do not look at some one regardless of their social standing any more important then myself or any less important, I do not look at any one of a different nationality any different then myself, then or now. In another words we should all learn from the past that is why they so call teach history in high school. But to hash over it over and over again is not resolving nothing. But we now have the power to change it in our own homes. Do we? You are the only ones who know the truth on that one. I have read all the post on this and I think it is about time to get onto another subject this one has been beat up enough. I know, I do know how to use the delete key, and am going to use it from now on. Sorry but its getting out of hand, as with as many different opinions there are people in this world, lets try to understand that before taking it to personal. Please forgive me of my opinions. New subject, how about "positive things the singers of the declaration did, before and after" smile. positive for positive , negative for negative.