Declaration of Independence read in Uvalde

Small town serves up patriotism on 4th of July

UVALDE, Texas – In the city of Uvalde, there are hundreds of flags lining the streets, making sure that the Fourth of July is on every corner and on the tip of every tongue -- literally.

That's because just like every year since 1996 or so, the Declaration of Independence was brought to the city plaza, and read aloud to the townspeople.

One of the readers, Uvalde County Assistant District Attorney Christina Busby, says the document had meaning back in 1776 and here today as well.

"Some of the problems they are speaking to in the declaration are still issues for us today. Taxing, immigration, all those things that our politicians talk about today were the things that they addressed back then and their words are still inspiring for us today," she noted.

The reading of the Declaration was the work of the criminal attorneys in the county. The hundreds of American flags that lined downtown blocks was the work of the Lion's Club.

It was a true community effort, with a public performance of a Native American dance troupe, who celebrated the holiday in traditional garb.

Girl scouts, cub scouts and Boy Scout troops posted colors, local singer Cecilia Martinez sang "America the Beautiful," and others gave addresses on the traditions and importance of the day.

"They are Texans, and you know what that makes you. They are committed to their country, not just their town, but to their entire nation and I think you could see that heart in these people today," said organizer Emmitt Harris.


About the Author:

Ursula Pari has been a staple of television news in Texas at KSAT 12 News since 1996 and a veteran of broadcast journalism for more than 30 years.