To my fellow American readers:

I hope the series on Cuban defectors this week has helped in a small way to remind myself and others that the freedoms we take for granted are far too often not granted to others. In celebrating the holiday today, it’s liberty we’re celebrating, as well as those who fight to maintain it.

Enjoy the company, parades, cookouts, the World Cup matches and of course, the national pastime (complete this year with special new hats)!

Happy Independence Day, everyone!