1. United States
2. Letter

To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to express my deep concern and strong condemnation regarding the official celebration of Andrew Jackson’s birthday and the glorification of his legacy by the current administration. While Jackson’s role as a military leader and his impact on American history are undeniable, his presidency is also marked by policies and actions that directly contradict the values of justice, democracy, and human rights that we, as a nation, should strive to uphold. His implementation of the Indian Removal Act, which led to the forced displacement and suffering of tens of thousands of Indigenous people in what became known as the Trail of Tears, remains one of the darkest chapters in American history. The celebration of his legacy without acknowledging these atrocities is a disservice to the truth and to those who suffered as a result of his policies. Additionally, Jackson’s expansion of executive power, his defiance of the Supreme Court’s ruling in Worcester v. Georgia, and his aggressive economic policies, which led to the destabilization of the banking system, present a troubling precedent. By uncritically embracing Jackson’s legacy, this administration sends a message that the suffering of marginalized communities can be overlooked in favor of political convenience. Furthermore, the assertion that your administration is following in Jackson’s footsteps is particularly troubling. If this means continuing policies that disregard Indigenous rights, favor economic nationalism at the expense of global cooperation, and undermine democratic institutions, then it represents a step backward rather than progress for our nation. At a time when our country should be reckoning with its history and working toward justice and reconciliation, celebrating Andrew Jackson in such a manner is an affront to those who have long fought for civil rights, Indigenous sovereignty, and a more just society. I urge your administration to reconsider how it commemorates historical figures and to adopt a more honest and inclusive approach to American history.