'I don’t take it for granted:' Alabamians weigh in on what it means to be an American

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. —

As millions celebrate Independence Day, WVTM 13 wanted to know what it means to be an American, especially with all the challenges the country faces today.

Last week, the country saw the Supreme Court make decisions that some might say discriminate against specific groups of people. But some people at Railroad Park said they’re still grateful to be an American and celebrate the land of the free and home of the brave.

“They lost their lives so that we could be here today,” Darin Williams, who attended the festival, said. “There’s more than just music and food. It’s a celebration of those that came before us.”

Hundreds of Central Alabamians braving the rain Tuesday night to celebrate at the Fourth of July Family Festival. Railroad Park was the premier place for safe family fun.

“Seeing people come out and have a good time and do away with the negative perception that we can’t come together and enjoy without having some type of violent activity,” Williams said.

But the main draw was watching the bright lights from Vulcan Park fill the night’s sky.

“I remember a few years back we used to drive through the freeway,” festival attendee Ismerai Chavez said, “and that’s not safe.”

Many enjoyed the convenience of the one stop shop.

“Normally you have to always figure out where you’re going to watch it,” festival attendee Nebreda Tabb said. “You have to deal with the traffic, but if you’re already here you already have a great view. This is the perfect spot to just enjoy family day and watch the fireworks and all the festivities.”

And while the fireworks are the draw for some, others said the holiday means much more to them.

“I’m actually an immigrant,” Chavez said. “It took me 20 years to become a citizen. I don’t take it for granted.”

But some say the country doesn’t always live up to be the place where everyone can achieve the American dream.

“I think it has its challenges, but—to be honest—I don’t think I would want to be anywhere else, especially with everything going on in this country,” Tabb said.

The hope for this year’s Independence Day is coming together despite what some see as differences.

“I feel like we just have to in a way like love each other,” Chavez said, “respect each other. We have a lot more in common than we think.”