Happy Fourth of July!
Indonesian Reflection on America's Independence Day
by Meylisa Hadi
Every summer, as the weather warms and the sky fills with the sound of fireworks, people across the United States gather to celebrate the Fourth of July. For Americans, it’s a special day that marks the country’s independence. But for us, Indonesians living in the U.S., it’s also a chance to pause and reflect.
Whether we are here as students, professionals, families, or part of the Indonesian diaspora, the Fourth of July often brings a mix of feelings. While it may not be our national holiday, it’s one we’ve come to experience and appreciate in our way.
What the Fourth Means to Us
Back home in Indonesia, our Independence Day falls on August 17. It’s filled with familiar traditions, like flag ceremonies, school parades, neighborhood competitions, and community clean-up events. There’s a sense of fun, but also of shared pride in our history.
Here in the U.S., the Fourth of July feels different, but somehow still familiar. We’ve learned to enjoy:
- Fireworks displays that light up the night
- Backyard barbecues with friends and neighbors
- Parades that bring people together in small towns and big cities
- The simple joy of being outside in the summer with people you care about
Some of us even bring a little taste of Indonesia with us. Maybe it’s satay sizzling on the grill next to burgers, or a potluck dish with flavors from home. Sometimes, we bring batik to the picnic or teach our new friends how to say “Merdeka!” with a smile.
For many of us, the Fourth of July is more than just a celebration with food and fireworks. It’s a reminder of the freedom we’ve come to value, not just the political kind, but the freedom to study, to work, to build a life in a new place, and to be ourselves.
It also reminds us how powerful diversity can be. At Fourth of July gatherings, it’s not unusual to see people from all backgrounds coming together. That spirit of inclusion, even in small moments, makes us feel welcomed and seen.
Living Between Two Cultures
Living in the U.S. as Indonesians means we carry two cultures in our hearts. We celebrate the Fourth of July with our American friends, while still looking forward to August 17, when we wave the red and white flag and remember where we come from.
Both days matter to us. They remind us that identity is not about choosing one place over another. It’s about honoring all the stories that shape us.
To our fellow Indonesians in the U.S., whether this is your first Fourth of July or your tenth, we hope you find a way to celebrate that feels right for you. And to our American friends, thank you for sharing this day with us.
Happy Fourth of July
From the hearts of Indonesians living in America