The 4th of July has always had a special place in our childhood memories. As children, we lived in a small town that organized an annual parade to commemorate this holiday that took place steps from our front door. On the morning of the parade, our parents would get up early to place chairs and blankets along a segment of the sidewalk to ensure we would receive VIP seating and adequate shade for the parade's duration.
Coordinating with our 4th of July t-shirts, our family would attend this event annually to view the creative floats, classic cars, and marching bands. We proudly spoke Spanish and clapped extra loudly when we saw the charros and escarmuzas. The ballet folklórico dancers also brought so much vibrancy and talent to the parade. Those elements made it magical. Families warmly wished one another a "Happy 4th" and children expressed their excitement upon seeing the morning's parade roll by, often receiving flags and candy from parade participants.
As we got older and family members moved away, we have reflected on how fortunate we were to have this childhood experience. Due to our global pandemic and the attacks on Latinos due to hate crimes, we wonder when we might be able to relive those memories with our loved ones. It is up to all of us to take care of one another and to hope for better days. In the meantime, we share this picture of our niece, who like us, displays her pride in being both de aquí y de allá. From our family to yours, we wish you all a safe and healthy Happy 4th of July!
-Fiesta Kits USA
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