It is America’s 250th birthday, and we should all be celebrating—including journalists.

In the business of news, many newsrooms don’t celebrate the Fourth of July—ever.

Over the years, I was given a number of reasons why reporters shouldn’t be patriotic: “It’s biased.” “We can’t support the U.S. and hold those in power accountable.” One time a manager told me, “You can’t show allegiance to America because patriotism shows that you are in favor of one party over another.”

Now, the American flag is seen by many as an indication that you are conservative, share the values of Republicans, or simply support MAGA—instead of being what it is: patriotic.

Now that I am independent, I can tell you unequivocally: I celebrate the Fourth of July. And so does this outlet, ONLACA—because no other country guarantees freedom of speech and freedom of the press the way the United States does.

The only reason the press and journalists exist in America is because they are protected by the Constitution.

That is why Americans and journalists alike should always celebrate Independence Day. Without it, independent journalism does not exist.

Happy Fourth of July!