State Treasurer Don Stenberg issued the following message today in recognition of the upcoming Fourth of July holiday.

“The Fourth of July is a celebration of freedom. The Declaration of Independence reminds us that freedom is not a gift of a benevolent government, but is an unalienable right given to us by our Creator.

“As the Declaration of Independence says, ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.’

“This Fourth of July, as you celebrate your freedom with friends, family picnics, fireworks, and other activities, take a moment to give thanks to our Creator who gave us our liberty as an unalienable right. Have a happy Fourth of July!”