July 4th Marks Independence Day in the U.S., But for Michael Jackson, Freedom Was a Global Pursuit…… Read more 👇

July 4th Marks Independence Day in the U.S., But for Michael Jackson, Freedom Was a Global Pursuit

As fireworks light up the American sky on July 4th, millions commemorate the United States’ declaration of independence — a powerful symbol of freedom and liberty. Yet for Michael Jackson, freedom was never confined by borders. Through his music, activism, and global influence, Jackson transformed the concept of independence into a worldwide mission for justice, equality, and unity.

While July 4th honors a nation’s birth, Michael Jackson’s work reminds us that the pursuit of freedom is not just a national cause — it’s a human one. His art was often a rallying cry for those without a voice, addressing racism, poverty, war, and social injustice. Jackson used his platform to bridge divides and shine a light on the world’s darkest corners, believing that music could spark change and foster healing.

In his 1991 hit “Black or White”, Jackson tackled racial harmony head-on, with lyrics proclaiming, “It don’t matter if you’re black or white.” The song, released during a period of rising racial tensions globally, was more than a pop anthem — it was a bold statement against discrimination. The accompanying music video featured cross-cultural visuals and transformative imagery that emphasized our shared humanity.

Another defining track, “They Don’t Care About Us”, released in 1995, took an even more unflinching look at social injustice, police brutality, and the marginalization of the oppressed. Filmed in Brazil’s favelas and featuring the cultural percussion group Olodum, Jackson spotlighted the realities of inequality on a global scale. Despite controversy, the song remains one of his most overt political messages, now more relevant than ever in today’s movements for human rights.

Perhaps Jackson’s most universally unifying message came in “Heal the World”, a ballad that called for compassion, peace, and care for children. Released in 1992, the song inspired the creation of the Heal the World Foundation, a charitable organization that aimed to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and raise awareness about global crises. From war-torn regions to natural disasters, Jackson often donated both his time and fortune to provide relief and advocate for change.

Michael Jackson didn’t just sing about freedom — he lived it through philanthropy and cultural diplomacy. From staging historic concerts in Eastern Europe after the fall of the Berlin Wall to delivering humanitarian aid in Africa, Jackson transcended the title of entertainer. He became a symbol of unity, using his global popularity as a force for good.

On this Independence Day, while Americans celebrate their nation’s liberty, it is also fitting to remember individuals like Michael Jackson, who redefined what freedom means in a global context. His legacy serves as a reminder that the fight for justice and equality is a shared responsibility — and that music can be one of its most powerful weapons.

As Jackson himself once said, “In a world filled with hate, we must still dare to hope. In a world filled with anger, we must still dare to comfort.”