Global Courant
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of July 4, visitors to the nation’s capital shared what it means to be American as they passed by the Washington Monument, honoring one of the nation’s Founding Fathers.
“To me it means freedom,” Colorado’s Rosemary told Fox News.
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Every Fourth of July, Americans gather to honor the signing of the 1776 Declaration of Independence. Families and friends come together to pay tribute to the Stars and Stripes and to celebrate what it means to be American.
“It means remembering the meaning of freedom, what it means to be an American (and) the sacrifices that have been made for our freedom here in this country,” said St. Louis-based Thomas.
Thomas shares what the fourth of July means to him in the run-up to summer vacation. (Megan Myers/Fox News Digital)
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Julian told Fox News that the Fourth of July meant honoring veterans who “gave their lives for our freedom.”
Some Americans view summer vacation as a time for relaxation and fun festivities. The holiday is known for festive fireworks, parades, and barbecue parties covered in red, white, and blue decorations.
“Like, what does it really mean? I’m just going to get drunk with my friends and (watch) the fireworks,” Maryland’s Kayla said with a laugh. She said she looked forward to her family’s boozy treat of vodka pickles at their annual Fourth of July celebration.
Every Fourth of July, communities come together for holiday celebrations that include fireworks, parades, and barbecue parties. (Getty Images)
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Jennifer, also from Maryland, said while the holiday is a time to reflect on what Independence Day means, it’s also an opportunity to connect with loved ones.
“It’s not just about Independence Day and celebrating as a nation,” she said. “It’s also a very family-oriented vacation.”
National pride has been at or near an all-time low in recent years, with only 39% of adults saying they are “extremely proud” to be an American, according to a Gallup survey conducted from 1 to 20 June with more than 1000 respondents. Still, two-thirds said they were proud or extremely proud to be American.
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“The Fourth of July is the day you celebrate American values,” said Arizona’s Andrew. “You live in this country. You want to be proud of it.”
Chris says the 4th of July means celebrating the values we’ve been fighting for. (Megan Myers/Fox News Digital)
Chris, from Alaska, said America was built on values like patriotism, loyalty and love for the country, which should be celebrated on July 4 every year.
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“We fought a revolutionary war for that, a civil war,” said Alaskan Chris. “Everything we have is celebrated on that day.”
Click here to hear more responses from Americans.
Megan Myers is an associate producer/writer at Fox News Digital Originals.
