The US celebrated its 249th Independence Day on July 4, but this time the freedom festival was seen in many places. In many places the organizers canceled their program, mainly due to the immigration policy of Trump administration. The organizers say that people are scared of federal immigration policies and people have not attended the festival for fear of targeting people on caste grounds. At the same time, many Democrat supporters are reconsideration on how to celebrate July 4 as a celebration.
In many communities of Southern California, the Independence Day was shortened or completely canceled.
The main reason for this is the fear arising out of federal immigration policies and enforcement. The parade was canceled this time in Los Angeles’s L Sereno neighborhood, as 90% of the participants refused to participate in the parade citing security concerns.
One of the organizers, Jenny Gujarro said, “People believe in patriotism, but they are afraid.”
Performance in many cities
He said that people are afraid of being targeted on the basis of racial identity and this fear is preventing them from joining the festival. Apart from this, other local events like Utsav and Downtown Block Party at Bell Gardens also canceled their respective programs.
While the organizers in many cities canceled the programs, there was heavy opposition on the occasion of Independence Day in many places. Demonstrations are taking place across the country against President Donald Trump’s policies, especially medicines.
Managing Director of Women’s March Tamika Middleton said that this year’s events are from Chhota Potalk (Community Fun) to big urban rallies.
There is a plan to protest against new citizens during a citizenship ceremony at Partsmouth, New Hampshire. So that solidarity can be shown with new citizens.
At the same time, a major performance is scheduled outside Houston’s City Hall. Middleton said, “We are inviting people to imagine true freedom.”
Cracker industry worried with the crown
This year fireworks will definitely shine in the sky, but the increasing import duty (tariff) has put the firecracker industry in worry. Most of the crackers in the US are imported from China. But this time the current tariff on Chinese firecrackers is 30% and it reached 145% earlier this year, causing retail vendors about the 250th Independence Day celebrations of 2026.
Julie Hekman of the American Pyrotechnics Association said, “This year we can handle, but the 250th anniversary may be in danger.”
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