FREEDOMS

By Guest Blogger, Willard "Woody" Michels

Recently I was looking through a book of paintings by Norman Rockwell- and four particular images stuck out. These paintings were done by Rockwell in 1943 at the height of World War II having traces back to FDR’s 1941 speech that he considered freedoms essential to preserve.

In 1943 these pictures were for a war-wearied people because they knew we were fighting for freedom. The four themes about American life in these paintings were Freedom from Fear, Freedom of Speech, Freedom from Want and Freedom to Worship. More than likely people older than 70 may remember these paintings.

However, as a reminder or refresher, freedom from fear depicted a mother and father looking over a couple of children sleeping comfortably in bed depicting a calming, relaxed scene. Freedom of speech has the image of a blue collar worker in a worn leather coat standing in a crowd of people making some kind of statement. It is reminiscent of a union member or town hall meeting. Freedom from want shows an grandmotherly lady serving a big roast turkey to what looks like a family Thanksgiving dinner gathering. Freedom to worship depicts several people with folded hands, heads bowed in prayer. Several religions are evident including one lady holding a Catholic rosary.

An updated version depicts an American Indian, Muslim and Hindu as well. Now, while contemplating the news in early 2025 I recalled these pictures and wondered if they still applied to the American people. Freedom from fear is certainly not prevalent among many Americans today. Non white people, especially those of Latin decent, are now subject to arrest and must prove citizenship. How many of these people can look over their sleeping children without fear in their minds.

Thousands of people working in government jobs have been fired for no reason or warning. Thousands more fear firing or have been threatened, wondering how they will pay their bills if a job is lost, or fear, of what would happen if someone in the family needs health care. Currently, we have abandoned aid to Ukraine and heaven only knows our position on the people of Israel and Gaza. A five alarm fire warning is sounding and no one seems to be reacting.

How many Americans really enjoy Freedom from Fear. It is apparent that Federal employees are not free to express their concerns or face banishment. Many of our elected officials don’t speak their opinions any more for fear of retaliation from leadership. Fealty to party leaders is more important than conscience or duty.

Recently news editors and broadcasters have been chastised for speaking truth or pointing out lies promoted by political and corporate big wigs. Social media has inspired mass misinformation and pity the person who dares to counter these wrongs. Do all these people think freedom of speech is threatened? Freedom from Want depicted by Rockwell is certainly not enjoyed by the 20 some million kids who go to bed hungry each night in America. The SNAP, supplemental nutrition assistance program, providing meals for countless people is under the axe.

SNAP is a large portion of the USDA budget of billions of dollars, indicating the countless young and needy in America. Do you think these people and the thousands of homeless are enjoying the freedom from want in America? In addition, do - American people feel comfort in the sudden halt, to the USAID program. How many thousands around the world are starving without this aid?

Many people have know want all their lives. Freedom to worship is still somewhat enjoyed in America with a few exceptions. Jewish and Muslims often seem to be targeted depending on what is happening around the world. Muslims in the recent past were prohibited from entering America. Native Americans have always been expected to accept the Christian philosophy of religion and to abandoned their traditional means of worship. Being a white Christian certainly helps your freedom to worship In America.

So-reflecting on Rockwell's FREEDOMS OF 1943 makes a person wonder. Would Rockwell be able to paint these pictures in 2025 about America. If he did, what would he put in the images? It might be good for Americans, to think about this