MIAMI — On Saturday, the United States of America celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and the only place in the country where you can view founding-era documents outside of Washington, D.C., is in South Florida.
An engraved copy of the Declaration of Independence is on view at the Museum of Miami through Sunday, giving visitors a firsthand look at what tomorrow is all about, according to the museum’s CEO Natalia Crujeira.
A long line of visitors came out to see the document Friday.
The exhibit gives families an opportunity to connect to those bigger ideals and to question whether or not they’re living up to that expectation, Crujeira said, describing the Declaration’s words as aspirational ones that eventually inspired so many other revolutions.
Other founding-era documents are on view through Sunday, including oath cards. One described the moment of decision facing colonists: “You are in the middle of the war, you are not winning, you are not losing, but you are not winning and then asked to sign an oath of allegiance swear against the king.”
Army veteran Julio Escareno brought his 7-year-old daughter, Liana, to see the documents ahead of tomorrow’s 250th anniversary.
“I was explaining to her that it took a lot of bravery to make that commitment, to not know if they were going to live and die, but know they did not want to be under British rule,” Escareno said.
Escareno, who served in several deployments, said his children understand the sacrifices veterans make and where it all began.
“I served in several deployments, so they understand the sacrifices veterans make, so they understand where it all began,” he said. “I love my country and I want my children to have that same love for that country, and do what it takes to preserve the beauty that we have, that right, wrong, or indifferent, we have a great country.”
Caio Pingitori said the anniversary resonates well beyond U.S. borders.
“It is inspiring for all the countries in the world, in Brazil we love the United States, so that is why we are here, we love you guys,” Pingitori said.
n Miami Beach, at 10th and Ocean, an outdoor exhibition highlights American achievements.
“It is really an opportunity to learn, to engage, and to celebrate the ideals of a nation,” one attendee said.
World Cup fans can watch a match at the FIFA Fan Festival at Bayfront Park in downtown Miami, followed by a “250 United” fireworks show.
“That is such a blessing for a country, this July 4th, commemorating, celebrating, 250 years of this great story,” one person said.
In Broward County, Fort Lauderdale and Pembroke Pines both have events planned for tomorrow.
Coral Gables’ Biltmore hotel is hosting its annual celebration and fireworks show, and additional events are planned from Doral to Key Largo.
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