As a newcomer to D.C., I am eager to explore all this city has to offer. Despite the sprawling National Mall and the throngs of tourists, D.C. is also a network of communities. This blog explores the ways that D.C. residents are banding together to strengthen communities, and building an inclusive green economy from the bottom-up.

I have celebrated the 4^th of July in many U.S. cities and towns across the country. Commemorating the holiday in D.C. this year felt different. For days beforehand, the whole city was buzzing as people made plans to join the crowds down on the National Mall to watch fireworks, or to perch on a rooftop and enjoy the impressive display. Red, white, and blue were smattered about the city. People hung American flags from balconies and car windows. Children and adults painted their faces. Patriotic anthems lauding the beauty and strength of the land of the free were heard in the distance, rising up from crowds of friends who walked, arms linked, through the streets of our nation's capital.

July 4^th can represent many things. For many, it is a time to celebrate triumphs and appreciate our freedoms. For me, the holiday's greatest significance is as a time to remember that, as Americans, we are empowered to determine the future of our country. On the 234th anniversary of U.S. independence, we still have the power to change the fundamental direction in which we are headed. 

As I lay on my back on the Mall looking up at the explosions of light and color, I realized that what struck me as truly awesome and powerful was the fact that so many had gathered to celebrate our continued efforts to “form a more perfect union.”

To me, a more perfect union would be one that no longer tolerated irresponsible use of energy or depletion of resources. A more perfect union would be built on the foundation of an inclusive green economy, one that truly supports the idea that “all [people] are created equal.”

Given that we are lucky enough to live in a country that welcomes bold new ideas and actions, we are faced with a very important task:

We must build a movement that will effect fundamental changes in our society.

What would you like to see change by July 4, 2011?