I would like the general public to remember what the holiday on July 4 is really all about. It’s not about cookouts, parades, or fireworks. It’s about “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” That is why we should not “Celebrate the Fourth”; instead, we should “Celebrate Independence Day,” as our Founding Fathers called it.

The Founding Fathers of this great country voted for independence from the British government on July 2, 1776. The Declaration of Independence is a written explanation to their fellow colonists as to why the Continental Congress had voted this way. This document was formerly adopted by Congress on July 4, 1776, but it was not signed until Aug. 2, 1776.

On behalf of the Tiverton Historical Society, I am inviting the public to participate in reading the Declaration of Independence at 9 a.m. on Friday, July 4, at the World War I Dough Boy memorial statue in the Bicentennial Green in front of the old Stone Bridge in Tiverton. We all need to remember why we enjoy the freedom we have in this country, and know the reasons why Congress declared our independence as a separate country from Britain.

This public reading is not like any other; those present are encouraged to read a marked passage from the Declaration so “We the People” can all participate. Prior to the reading, a brief history of significant events of past years, including those leading up to the creation of the Declaration are recounted, so it is different every year. I will have Declarations available to read from, so all can take turns in reading aloud this important founding document (don’t forget your reading glasses!).

I hope you will share your experience at this public reading with others who did not attend — and the reason why it is called Independence Day. This event takes about 30 minutes or less, but it may be the most important 30 minutes of the day. Then you can go to your cookouts, parades, and fireworks knowing why it is such a great American holiday.

Remember, every country has a Fourth of July, but only in America is it Independence Day.

Happy Independence Day!

Susan Anderson

Tiverton Historical Society