American pride and excitement beamed throughout Northeast Ohio on Saturday as Ohioans came together to celebrate the Fourth of July.
U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and former 11th Congressional District representative, Marcia Fudge, led the “America’s Back Together” celebration in Akron.
“To go through 15, 16 months almost two years of not coming together have been difficult,” Fudge said.
We all remember last Fourth of July. It was quiet, uncelebrated and socially distanced. This year, the holiday felt all new again.
“We’ve come a long way,” Fudge said.
“We were prevented from having this fun last year, so now I’m taking advantage of it,” said Melissa Davis, who was celebrating with her family.
“Just like a month ago, everyone had masks on and how much has changed in the last month is really refreshing,” Tiffany Morckel said.
In Akron and all throughout Northeast Ohio, freedom bells rang, as Ohioans gathered once again.
“This is a time for celebration, not just for the Fourth of July, but to celebrate America and our coming back together,” Fudge said.
Fudge spoke loud and proud about how far Ohio has come, but remained vocal about what Ohioans should continue striving for.
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“This the first time for us to come together and really understand what we’ve been through,” Fudge said. “I will admit, Ohio is lagging. We are maybe about 36 [in line for vaccinations]. Every single person that gets a shot makes it better for us.”
Also, echoing her excitement, Mayor Horrigan.
“To be able to invite people back down here and enjoy,” Horrigan said. “That’s a great message saying, ‘Look at all these events that we’re having.’ I think it’s time to enjoy.”
“I’m excited to be here and I will be here every concert, every festival for the rest of the summer,” Davis said.”
“Happy fourth of July,” Morckel said.
More information on where more celebrations and firework shows will take place Sunday, CLICK HERE.