Flag Flapping: CYOC in the Independence Day Parade

Flag Flapping: CYOC in the Independence Day Parade

By: Ruichen Feng

On July 4th, Independence Day, I had the honor of joining the Capital Youth Outreach Club (CYOC, 华府青年) parade team, marching proudly with a giant American flag along Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C. The day was very hot, by 10:30 am, we had arrived in D.C. and found many CYOC members already assembled, ready to take part in the parade. With some time before the official start, I surveyed the diverse groups preparing to march – from bands and music cars to balloons and even Smokey the Bear mascots, symbolizing the US wildfire prevention campaign. The streets were lined with spectators eagerly anticipating the parade.

After receiving our volunteer shirts, a staff member guided us to the enormous flag we would carry. It was so large, it reminded me of those parachutes that elementary schoolers flapped up and down during PE class. After a brief respite from the sun, we were informed the parade was starting and we needed to line up. Stepping onto Constitution Avenue, we proudly unfurled the flag, drawing cheers from the onlookers as it stretched majestically before them. Throughout the march, we exchanged cheers with spectators, waving small American flags in hand. Finally reaching the end of the route, we reunited with other CYOC members who had carried smaller flags.

As I cooled off under a giant water fan, I reflected on the significance of participating in such a grand and symbolic event. The experience left a profound impression on me. The opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful event and to represent CYOC in front of thousands of spectators was incredibly rewarding. Standing there, I felt a deep sense of pride in our country and community. It underscored the importance of coming together to celebrate our shared values and history. Moreover, participating in the parade gave me a renewed appreciation for the efforts of organizations like CYOC in fostering community engagement and youth leadership. It reinforced my commitment to volunteerism and civic participation, knowing that even small actions can make a big difference in bringing people together. In short, marching in the 2024 Independence Day parade was not just a memorable experience, but also a reaffirmation of the values that bind us as a nation and as a community.