Qarina Vitri Aulia, Islamic State University of Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang
Independence is a word that echoes loudly in ears, reminding of a series of heroic, soul-stirring events. Every year, when August rolls around, Indonesia recalls the historic moment when the proclamation of independence was announced. However, the tensity of freedom seeking did not stop on August 17, 1945. The meaning of independence is evolving, along with national development, expanding into new realms that we must fight for with the same, or even greater struggle. A heartwarming example is the story of Papua, a region rich in culture and resources, yet often feeling marginalized. The people of Papua island, with all their magnificent traditions and natural beauty, are still grappling with the injustices that haunt their everyday lives.
Economic inequality, limited access to education, and insufficient health services are gloomy side that is happening continuously. The demonstrations that often break out are a mirror that political independence is not perfect without social and economic independence.
This story draws on the memory of Indonesia’s dark past, when colonialism enveloped the country. For three and a half centuries, the Indonesian people lived in the shadow of the greedy power that oppressed them and deprived them of their basic rights. The heroes of nation, with unmeasured courage, rose up against foreign oppression. They fought not only with weapons, but also with passion and a deep love for the country. Finally, on August 17, 1945, independence was achieved, becoming a milestone that shook the soul of every child of the nation.
The struggle for independence did not end on August. As time went by, the Indonesian were faced with a new challenge that was even harder to solve: social injustice. Independence has been declared, but injustice is still deeply rooted, manifesting in many different forms such as discrimination, economic inequality, and unequal access to education and health services. This is a new form of colonialism that we must fight with the same spirit.
Economic inequality is one of the most painful thorns in the flesh. Striking economic growth has not been able to touch all levels of society. So Many are still intertwining in poverty, struggling to fulfill even their basic needs. It becomes all parties’ duty together, the government and society, to create an inclusive policy, reduce the gap between, and ensure that prosperity can be felt by each of all. Education, the key pillar of the nation’s progress, is still a luxury for some Indonesian children. In the remote areas of the country, many still struggle to get a proper education. There’s no place, no teacher, and no facilities. Education as the bridge to a brighter future, must be accessible for every child, so that each of them has an equal opportunity to walk this path.
Social injustice issue also touches on the discrimination of gender, ethnic and religious. Indonesia, with all its cultural richness, still faces some big challenges in maintaining the nation’s unity. Discrimination is a poison which threatens the harmony of Indonesia. As Indonesian, continuing to promote efforts to eliminate this discrimination through education, raising public awareness, and fair law enforcement is an obligation.
The fight against social injustice is a long symphony that requires participation from every element of society. Every individual plays an important role in creating a fair and equal environment. From small things like respecting differences, helping others, to being fair in every action, we can build a better nation together. The spirit of the heroes of independence must remain an inspiration to the nation. The lives and bodies they sacrificed prove that with courage, perseverance, and sincerity, independence can be achieved. Now, the nation’s children bear the responsibility to continue the struggle, ensuring that the independence we enjoy is not only free from physical colonialism, but also from all forms of social injustice, realizing a subsequent independence.
Every Indonesian holds the fate of the nation in his or her hands, small or big, young or old. With the spirit of unity, let us realize a truly independent Indonesia, where every citizen can live with dignity, in justice and prosperity. The struggle will be endless, but with determination and hard work, true independence can be bought.