People gathered in Mackenzie Park to celebrate the Fourth of July with music, food and fireworks. However, many people kept in mind the meaning behind the day.
Othello Richards, who spent his childhood in Liberia, said his family came to America to escape the war-torn country when he was six years old. But it wasn’t until three years ago that he officially became an American.
“I went up for my citizenship, got it, cried, because this is my country now,” he said.
“When asked what America meant to Richards, he said it’s about freedom and independence.
“We are in a free country. We are independent. We have our first amendment rights, freedom of the press, freedom of expression, freedom to petition, freedoms in the country we can enjoy,” he shared while sporting a cap and patriotic colors.
While Leisa Goode and Richards, who both joined Wednesday’s festivities, mentioned the shortcomings in America, they said we have a lot to be grateful for.
“America means to me, being able to spend time with your friends and family. Your family is together not separated,” said Goode.
“We do have those isolated incidents unfortunately, but there’s just a lot of things we don’t have to worry about,” said Richards.
Vietnam veteran, John Favela, said many people don’t realize what freedom means. “It means fighting for it to keep it,” he said.
People like Richards hoped their kids will always have these same rights and freedom.
“I want them to grow up in a country where we maintain our rights, maintain our freedom, and uphold the Constitution,” said Richards.
