Local leaders: What does Fourth of July mean to you?

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  • Happy Fourth of July!
    Happy Fourth of July!
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On Saturday, July 4, America once again celebrates its independence.

While many of the public celebrations across the state have been cancelled due to COVID-19, one could say it’s still time to honor our Founding Fathers for giving us our freedom and to reflect on what it means to be an American.

So, we asked some of our local leaders what Independence Day means to them. Here are some of their views and perspectives:

Kissimmee City Commissioner Jim Fisher

Thank you for this opportunity. Independence Day to me means Freedom. A time to reflect. Freedom to walk the streets without fear. Freedom to express oneself. Freedom to pray in my own home or the church of my choice. Freedom to love whom I chose and raise a family with the belief that anything is possible if you work hard enough. As an Army brat, I have lived in and visited countries where these freedoms are suppressed or simply not allowed. We should all be thankful for what we have and bare allegiance to all those men and women who fought and died to give us these freedoms.

Two members of my family lie in Arlington National Cemetery who bare witness to these freedoms because they were the Brave who gave all for us to reflect on Independence Day. This is what it means to me.

Osceola County Commissioner Peggy Choudhry

What does independence day mean to me?

Independence Day means more than just one thing. It reminds me of the members of my family, friends & individuals that have given their own independence to provide us with the freedoms we have daily.

The freedom to live life to our fullest. I live every day knowing the wonderful opportunities our country has provided for so many in our families and for the life and liberties it will provide to our future generations to come.

We may not be perfect, but we are indeed a country where change is possible, where our voices do matter and where we vote to make the decision we want for our future.

I hope that each American exercises their right to life, liberty and happiness.

Kissimmee City Commissioner Olga Gonzalez Independence Day

Independence Day means freedom. It means that we were liberated from a dictatorship.

That we were set free to live our lives, as we wanted, which not many countries can say the same. We have the freedom of speech, and religion that not many countries have either. Freedom to me is a privilege we have to be thankful for, and protect. We need to be grateful for what we have.

People can come here from other countries, and live a life that they could not live in their countries. Independence Day, has opened doors, for many. Thankful that from 13 colonies, we have developed into 50 wonderful states.

Independence, is just what it says. Independent (able to think, or act for oneself.

Not having anyone dictate to you, how you have to live. I am proud to be an American.

Kissimmee Mayor Jose Alvarez

For me, Independence Day is about celebrating the greatest nation on Earth. It’s about knowing that my family and I are privileged to be here. It’s about acknowledging the sacrifices made by so many to get us where we are today. And yes, it’s about recognizing what our forefathers knew very well, that never-ending hard work still lay ahead to continue building a more perfect union.

Osceola County School Board Member Ricky Booth

On July 4th, I reflect on the brave men who signed their names to the Declaration of Independence. I know it took an extraordinary amount of courage to put, not only their own lives, but the lives of their family and friends in danger with the stroke of a pen. The freedom they sought would not come free and it must still be defended, even today.

My fondest memories celebrating the holiday came from attending the Silver Spurs rodeos that used to always be held on the 4th of July.

St. Cloud City Councilwoman Linette Matheny

Short answer is freedom! As a kid, I spent the 4th of July like most: watching fireworks, running around with friends, and eating delicious food. As I got older, I began to understand the true meaning of the holiday. My best friend served in Desert Storm. My boyfriend’s kids are both Marines. I understand all the sacrifices that have been made and are being made that allow us to enjoy these freedoms. St. Cloud is a unique place and I love that we support and celebrate our Veterans. As most of you probably know, we are also known as Soldier City. Independence Day to me is a time to be patriotic, show love for your Country, and be proud to be an American.

Osceola County Commissioner Fred Hawkins Jr.

Independence Day reminds me that even through tough times, we still live in the greatest country in the world, freedom to choose our religion, what we want to be, where we want to go and where we want to live. I am so grateful for the men and women past and present who have fought, even sacrificed their lives to preserve and continue to fight for these freedom that we enjoy each and every day.

St. Cloud Mayor Nathan Blackwell

The 4th of July reminds me of a significant history many seem to have forgotten—or may have never been taught. The Fourth of July represents so much more than just a fun holiday. It reminds me that freedom isn’t free but comes at a great price. It reminds me of how patriots came before us and fought to provide and protect the values and freedom we often take for granted.

The Fourth of July is a celebration of America. It is a celebration of freedom – freedom to believe what we want, freedom to speak what we feel and the freedom to choose. We are free to disagree with the government without reprisal. We are free to pursue whatever makes us happy. July the Fourth reminds me that America is like no other country because God has blessed America like no other country.

Osceola County Sheriff Russ Gibson

Independence Day is the day America won its freedom from Great Britain, and our freedom is definitely worth celebrating. Being a free nation should mean that all men and women have equal opportunities to succeed in life, or live the life one chooses to live. Being free men and women, everyone should have the right to be treated equally and justice should be equal for all. We know from the recent protests and demonstrations happening all around our great nation that there is so much more work to do to ensure equality for all, and until that happens, we will never be totally free.

Osceola County School Board Member Terry Castillo

For me, Independence Day is a day of reflection. I reflect on the American forefathers and their hope for our great country. It is also a day to reflect on the incredible responsibility we have as Americans to protect and improve our Republic.