Vision | The Garfield Project

President James A. Garfield’s Vision for America

President Garfield: From Radical to Unifier, As we chart the life and times of one of the most remarkable Americans ever to win the Presidency. Progressive firebrand and conservative compromiser; Union war hero and founder of the first Department of Education; Supreme Court attorney and abolitionist preacher; mathematician and canalman; crooked election-fixer and clean-government champion; Congressional chieftain and gentleman-farmer; the last president to be born in a log cabin; the second to be assassinated.

James Abram Garfield was all these things and more. Over nearly two decades in Congress during a polarized era-Reconstruction and the Gilded Age-Garfield served as a peacemaker in a Republican Party and America defined by divisions. He was elected President to overcome them.

Reflecting on Garfield’s Vision for Under-served Communities Today

President James A. Garfield’s words resonate deeply with the ongoing journey of America’s underserved communities. His vision for true freedom, beyond mere emancipation and marginalized citizenship, calls us to examine the state of liberty and equality today. Garfield’s speech reminds us that freedom is more than the absence of bondage; it is the presence of opportunity, equality, and righteousness.

Realizing True Freedom

Garfield’s question—”Have we given freedom?”—urges us to reflect on the progress made and the challenges that remain. While we have made monumental steps, the uneven roads to the American Dream still exist between underserved communities and well served communities. Citizenship does not automatically translate into access to true liberty and equality. True freedom, as Garfield envisioned, involves tangible opportunities and rights that all citizens should enjoy.

Economic Empowerment

Economic empowerment is a crucial aspect of Garfield’s vision of substantial liberty. Increasing job training and creating equitable opportunities are vital for Black communities. Ensuring that Black Americans have access to quality education, vocational training, and employment opportunities is essential for building a robust and inclusive economy.

Promoting Racial Harmony

Garfield’s call for sharing the nation’s glories and blessings underscores the importance of racial harmony. Promoting understanding and unity among diverse racial groups is essential for a cohesive society. Initiatives that foster dialogue, mutual respect, and collaboration can help bridge racial divides and create a more harmonious nation.

Educational Equity

Education remains a cornerstone of freedom and equality. Garfield’s vision aligns with the importance of school choice and access to quality education for all. By advocating for policies that provide educational options and resources, we can ensure that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed.

Securing Equal Access

The struggle for justice and equality is ongoing. Garfield’s words remind us of the covenant made during the Civil War—a promise of freedom and equality for all. Ensuring that this covenant is fulfilled requires continuous efforts to address systemic racism, promote fair policies, and safeguard the rights of every citizen.

Strengthening Community and Business

Garfield’s emphasis on shared glories and blessings extends to economic opportunities for Black-owned businesses. Supporting and protecting these businesses not only strengthens the economy but also empowers communities. By increasing protections and opportunities for American-owned businesses, we honor Garfield’s vision of a nation where everyone can thrive.

Garfield’s vision serves as a powerful reminder of the true meaning of freedom and access. As we reflect on his words, we are called to continue the work of creating a nation where liberty is a tangible reality for all. By addressing the economic, educational, and social challenges faced by Americans in underserved communities today, we can move closer to realizing Garfield’s vision of a truly free and equal society.

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