Alameda Fourth of July parade attracts thousands, including new American citizens

KTVU Fox 2 Alameda ^ | Published July 4, 2023 5:54PM | By Brooks Jarosz

[thecodont]

ALAMEDA, Calif. - Patriotic colors and American flags filled the streets of Alameda Tuesday, but for some parade attendees, the signs of freedom carry special meaning on this Independence Day, including many veterans.

The city of Alameda says its annual July 4th parade is the longest in the nation, with a route spanning 3.3 miles and drawing more than 60,000 people.

"I used to come here as a kid, so I wanted to bring my kids," Melissa Poli of South San Francisco said. "This is the best parade."

People packed Park Street to get a glimpse of the floats, horses, antique cars, fire trucks, dance troops and community groups marching and celebrating America’s birthday.

But for some, seeing the American pride was a new experience, since they’re living in a new country.

"We’re now citizens," said Sohaib Ibrahimi, whose family emigrated from Afghanistan. "We just got our passports a month ago."

Ibrahimi was surrounded by other kids and relatives along the parade route, waving flags and showing their patriotism. They say they fled Afghanistan six years ago and are happy to be U.S. citizens.

[texas booster]

They say they fled Afghanistan six years ago and are happy to be U.S. citizens.

Wow, six years is actually kinda quick to get citizenship.

My mom waited seven years in the 50's, and a doctor and an engineer that I know waited 13 and 12 years, respectively.

[aquila48]

Sounds like the REAL Pride parade!

[Laslo Fripp]

👍

[SunkenCiv]

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