July 4 holiday stirs mixed emotions among Greater Houston residents

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — One of the most beautiful things about Houston is its diversity. But that also means there is a diversity of thoughts, feelings and emotions about what the Fourth of July means to us.

While many people celebrate this holiday, it can bring mixed emotions to some people at a time of division and tension in our country. Freedom and independence can mean different things to different people.

Some told ABC13 that it’s not the time to celebrate right now, given how polarized our country is. Others said it’s a day they use to focus on friends and family.

For Andy Luu, this is the first time both sides of his family have celebrated the Fourth of July together in Pearland. There’s plenty of food, cheering and laughter. As refugees who came to the United States after the Vietnam War, he said the holiday means celebrating what they have now that no longer exists in their home country.

“I’m so lucky to be here every day. That’s why I try to be the best son I can be and help my parents. I appreciate what they had to sacrifice to give me the life I have today,” Luu said.

Chase Terrell, who celebrated the holiday with friends in Pearland, said it was a chance for him to reflect on the privileges and rights afforded to people living in the United States.

“I think everyone takes it for granted and should be grateful for what this country already offers them and stop overthinking it,” Terrell said.

But in Emancipation Park in Houston’s Third Ward, Shelia Drake feels an eerie feeling. She said the neighborhood is normally bustling with people and festivities on the Fourth of July. But this year, it’s nearly empty, symbolizing how she feels about the holiday.

“Our family came to see the fireworks that took place for Freedom Over Texas. But where is freedom? Where is freedom over Texas? Where is real freedom? There is no freedom,” Drake said.

Despite the current divisive climate in the country, Dinishi Abayarathna said what keeps her optimistic is the power of community. Her Missouri City neighborhood celebrated July 4 together for the first time after successfully coming together two months ago to stop what they said was a disruptive amphitheater being built behind their homes.

“We really took advantage of this block party moment with all the craziness going on to double down on our efforts for the community. We have so much more in common than we do differences,” Abayarathna said.

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