Robert Fernandes, a New Jersey father, proved the “power of one” in the past month, when he dubbed Saturday, August 20, as “Lemonade Freedom Day.”
Now parents in California, Nevada, Colorado, Texas, Illinois, Indiana, Arkansas, Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Washington, D.C. are joining in. Here’s how Fernandes describes the origin of the event and what it means for him and his children:
Recently, we have seen many news reports of lemonade stands being shut down by police and other government workers. When kids sell things, such as lemonade, they are learning some very important lessons. They are learning about money and about being an entrepreneur. They are also learning how to be a productive member of society. They are learning about responsibility. They are participating in free and voluntary trade with willing participants. Selling lemonade is not a crime.
On August 20, 2011, we are suggesting that everyone who has children, who believe in this message, go outside and set up lemonade stands all across the country. Even if you don’t have children, go out and buy some lemonade from a local child’s lemonade stand.
We need to stand up for our kids. We need to send a message to the world. Selling lemonade is not a crime!
Fernandes’ web site also includes suggestions about what to do if visited by authorities, including: “always be respectful of any officials, follow their instructions even if they are wrong, and do not antagonize them.”
