America on this Fourth is troubled and divided. But it has seen and experienced worse — rioting, rebellion, terrorism, civil war, the Great Depression — and it has adapted and endured. In his long-forgotten acceptance speech, McGovern (who died 10 years ago) delivered some words worth recalling on this day:

“It is the time for this land to become again a witness to the world for what is just and noble in human affairs. It is time to live more with faith and less with fear, with an abiding confidence that can sweep away the strongest barriers between us and teach us that we are truly brothers and sisters.”

Voices Across America
Opinion This 1972 speech is more relevant than ever this Fourth of July
By the Editorial Board | The Washington Post July 3, 2022