commentaries

"Today there are black Washingtons, like this writer, who are often identified as African-American by people they have never met," he wrote. "There are white Washingtons who are sometimes misidentified and have felt discrimination. There are Washingtons of both races who view the name as a special -- if complicated -- gift."

Happy Fourth, my fellow Americans. To our British friends, happy fourth (and thanks again for the drums and redcoats).

And to all, please join me next May when we explore this question: Do they have Cinco de Mayo in England?

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