KAYSVILLE, Utah — While many 4th of July celebrations were canceled due to the threat of COVID-19, several hundred people gathered at Barnes Park to commemorate Independence Day.
“I love the country. I love the United States. It’s the 4th of July, it’s the day we celebrate freedom,” said Claudia Olson of Layton.
Claudia said she immigrated to the United States from Chile 24 years ago.
“It was here that I learned freedom is real,” Olson said.
Claudia was one of many people who attended the Community Independence Celebration organized by Utah Business Revival.
“It means everything. It’s our independence. It’s when we broke free from a radical and over-controlling government,” said Eric Moutsos, one of the event’s organizers. “This is what America should look like, especially on Independence Day. There is nothing more ironic than being locked in your house afraid, when we should be celebrating the freedoms we still have left.”
As several speakers and musical acts entertained the crowd, groups of individual families maintained social distancing by sitting at least six feet apart.
Few people were wearing masks. Currently, there is no public health order in Davis County to wear a face covering.
In May, Utah Business Revival attempted to host a concert in this park. It was forced to move to a location in southern Utah after receiving push-back from the city council.
“I know a few of the city officials were frustrated. But the chief of police is here to see if we need anything,” Moutsos said.
The event hosted several small businesses and food trucks.
In a year when so many adjustments have been made because of the coronavirus, many in attendance felt this holiday was too important to stay at home.
“It means the ability to be free and the right to chose,” said Jeremy Smith of West Jordan.
“America is great, Utah is great. This day is amazing,” Olson added.
