Independence Day, or July 4th is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence of the United States, on July 4, 1776. The Continental Congress declared that the thirteen American colonies were no longer subject (and subordinate) to the monarch of Britain, King George III, and were now united, free, and independent states.
Families often celebrate Independence Day by hosting or attending a picnic or barbecue; many take advantage of the day off and, in some years, a long weekend to gather with relatives or friends. Decorations (e.g., streamers, balloons, and clothing) are generally colored red, white, and blue, the colors of the American flag. Parades are often held in the morning, before family get-togethers, while fireworks displays occur in the evening after dark at such
places as parks, fairgrounds, or town squares. These days most celebrations are happening safely at home with loved ones and close friends.
As skateboarders most days feel like our Independence Day, but the actual Independence Day can mean so many different things to us. At least in the United States, we can be filled with pride to live in a country that allows us to freely chase a dream without major oppositions, whether that be skateboarding or even starting our own business. Independence Day can also be a day of freedom to skate spots that would normally be bustling with people or security guards. It can be a day with out friends and family, or just a day of relaxation to sit and ponder the lottery of life and how lucky some of us have got it.
Being a skateboarder has such a built in independence that sometimes we can over look the nuance of a day like July 4th, but with all the happenings of the last year, I think that everyone may have observed the 4th a little harder than normal... at least I did!
Happy Independence Day!!
