The 250th anniversary of American independence is being celebrated across the United States, despite a country gripped by political polarization and a heat wave affecting millions of people.
Celebrations Across the Nation
President Donald Trump plans to speak on the National Mall before a historically enormous fireworks show in the nation’s capital. Fireworks are also scheduled to be set off over Navy Pier in Chicago and against the skyline of New York City.
In Philadelphia, fireworks began to crack as early as midday near the site where the Declaration of Independence was adopted by delegates to the Second Continental Congress. Hundreds of visitors gathered at Independence Hall in the sweltering heat to await the celebrations coinciding with the France-Paraguay World Cup knockout game at Philadelphia Stadium.
A Nation Divided
The celebrations are unfolding against the backdrop of a deep divide this election year, visible in everything from political expression to cultural norms to age-old questions over race, class, and immigration.
Former Democratic President Bill Clinton stated that this anniversary milestone comes at a time of ‘renewed questions about America’s future and role in the world, and serious threats to our own institutions and to our democracy itself.’ Vice President JD Vance said small but loud voices would speak on America’s birthday about its imperfections instead of its greatness.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
