By: Louie Chiang

As the Fourth of July approaches, some Americans, especially those from younger generations like Atlanta’s Malaya Tapp and Manhattan’s Marissa Vivori, are reconsidering their excitement for traditional celebrations.

Tapp’s choice to stay away from celebrations is influenced by her loss of patriotism in the context of the Black Lives Matter movement and her concerns about the environmental effects and safety risks of fireworks.

According to Tapp, she “lost a lot of [her] patriotic feelings.” She adds that “It’s hard to tell the difference between guns and fireworks, and here there is always something on the news about a shooting or something, so it makes me nervous.”

Vivori cites logistical difficulties and political reservations as grounds for reconsidering her involvement. “Logistically, celebrating in New York City poses challenges… You’re either in Manhattan, and it’s super-hot…Or you are trying to leave to go to the Jersey Shore or the Hamptons, and it’s a fortune and overcrowded,” she said, and adds that “Last summer, Roe v. Wade was overturned, which made me less inclined to celebrate.”

According to polls, an increasing percentage of Americans, particularly the younger generation, are doubting the value of Independence Day. A YouGov poll found that 56 percent of Americans planned to observe the holiday this year.

Conner Miskowiec of Phoenix captures this changing feeling by making movies that display many perspectives on celebrating Independence Day. The results vary from unshakeable patriotism to criticisms of America’s inclusiveness.

These variations in viewpoint caused arguments over the Fourth of July’s significance as a uniting festival. Americans are increasingly looking for different methods to mark the day, such as visiting overseas or participating in community-based events.

While ideas and traditions vary, people like Tapp highlight the significance of realizing that the option to celebrate is personal. This continuous examination of the purpose and importance of Independence Day represents America’s longing for understanding and togetherness in the face of a changing cultural landscape. As the country struggles with its past and future, the celebration of Independence Day is being modified by each individual based on their own values and views.