As we celebrate American Independence Day on July 4, 2025, allow me to feature Americans and Filipino immigrants from all walks of life. I randomly asked them:
(1) How do you celebrate the 4th of July?
(2) What is the impact of the 4th of July on you?
The nine respondents’ replies are as follows:
Reese Tan Clendenen, a De La Salle University alumnus who is married to intelligence analyst Kevin Clendenen:
(1) “We usually hang out with family and friends the whole day and then watch the fireworks at night.”
(2) “The 4th of July is a time to slow down and appreciate the people I care about. I celebrate it with family and friends, and it’s one of those days when we come together to relax, enjoy good food, and create memories. Beyond the fireworks and traditions, it’s also a reminder of the freedom we often take for granted — and a chance to reflect on the values that shape our country.”
Daniel Guzman, a graduate of Southern Oregon Success Academy (SOSA) in Merlin, Oregon, who works for SENGA, a solar energy company in California:
(1) “I usually celebrate July 4th by spending time with friends and family, enjoying good food, and watching fireworks together. It’s a great time to relax and connect with loved ones.”
(2) “July 4th reminds me of the sacrifices that veterans and service members have made for our freedom. It’s a day of appreciation for the rights we have and the people who fought to protect them. I try to remember that while we enjoy the celebration, it’s also about honoring the history and the cost of our independence.”
Dr. Fernando de la Peña, an LA-based dentist:
(1) “I just stay at home if there are no weekend plans — relax, enjoy a good ol’ barbecue, and if there are fireworks nearby, I watch the show with my family.”
(2) “As an immigrant who grew up in another country, July 4th may not leave the same impression on me as it does on someone who was born and raised in the U.S. That said, I believe July 4th brings the country together. No matter how divided, how extremely opinionated, or how far apart people stand on issues, everyone agrees that July 4th gave birth to the greatest nation on Earth — and we should all drink to that!”
Lori Brooks, based in Las Vegas:
(1) “Sometimes I go to BBQs.”
(2) “No impact.”
Ricky Isip, based in Alabama:
(1) “Remembering our American heroes with thanksgiving in my heart for the freedom we enjoy today.”
(2) “Proud to be an American!”
Sunita Mukhi, artistic director, actress, and scholartist:
(1 & 2) “Enchanted by the fireworks celebrating independence — the release from the stranglehold of authoritarian colonial rule! Fireworks are full of color and brightness… speaking to the pluralism and innovation that these Great United States must continually aspire toward! YES!”
Chela Dircks, based in Indiana:
(1) “We have pictures of our deceased loved ones who served, and we light a candle in their honor. We usually have a BBQ with friends and family who are able to join the celebration. In our county, we’re allowed to set off fireworks, so we look forward to that display every year.”
(2) “Celebrating the 4th of July as a Filipino American, especially with a family legacy of U.S. military service, can be both deeply personal and uniquely meaningful. It’s not just about fireworks or barbecues — it’s also a time to reflect on service, sacrifice, and the blending of cultures.”
Sandy Sternberg, based in Florida:
(1 & 2) “As an immigrant and now a citizen of the United States, I always see the Fourth of July as a holiday well celebrated — not just with traditional hotdogs, burgers, and fireworks — but also with the diversity within the community. It’s an opportunity to foster greater inclusivity, especially during times when we’re all supposed to be united, not divided.”
Eduard Banez, singer and founder of Spluk.ph:
(1) “It will be celebrated with pomp and parade, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other.”
(2) “A powerful country made a strong history with courage and determination. Happy Independence Day.”
