In Takoma Park, Maryland, known for its liberal politics, people headed to the annual Fourth of July parade with tiny American flags, and dressed in T-shirts and dresses with a Stars and Stripes pattern, but some carried signs, or mini versions of the “Baby Trump” balloon that’s turned up at protests across the country, as well as across the Atlantic in the United Kingdom.
Katie D´Adamo was among those celebrating freedom on the Fourth of July — freedom of speech. One sign she carried read “Nadie es illegal,” which translates into: “No one is illegal.” Another sign read: “Close the Camps,” a reference to immigration detention facilities.
D’Adamo explained, “I believe no one is free until everyone is free, and my daughter is the daughter of an immigrant, a proud immigrant here in this country.”
Congressman Jamie Raskin, a Democrat from Montgomery County who represents Takoma Park, said the parade has a special flavor. Pointing to a veteran who wore a T-shirt referring to President Donald Trump as “Cadet Bonespurs,” Raskin, a Constitutional scholar, said, “That’s the American spirit! The First Amendment, alive and well.”
Nick Brown, who grew up in Takoma Park came back home for the holiday and says what makes Takoma Park’s celebration special is “seeing everybody out feeling proud about what they represent, and not holding back.”
The theme of this year’s parade was a salute to first responders.
Before the parade started, former Chief of the Takoma Park Volunteer Fire Department Jim Jarboe was asked about being a “hometown hero” and was modest about the title. “Oh, I don’t know. I guess we’re all heroes, we help people” he said, referring to the police and firefighters being honored. “I just hope it don’t rain on the parade” he said with a laugh.
Jarboe got his wish. The rain held off until after the parade, which was shortened this year, due to a fallen tree on Maple Avenue, the usual parade route.
WTOP’s Kate Ryan reported from Takoma Park
