The Villagers4Democracy group will host a celebration on Saturday, July 4 to mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The event is scheduled for 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Organizers emphasize that this event is a celebration rather than a protest. Attendees will gather to honor American history and historical accomplishments, including the abolition of slavery, the passage of women’s suffrage, the establishment of Social Security, the defeat of fascism, and the civil rights movement.
The event will be held adjoining the Lake Sumter Landing roundabout, along Morse Boulevard toward Stillwater Trail.
V4D, a nonpartisan organization, has been a central fixture in local political activism since the 2020 election. The group has been behind numerous large-scale gatherings in Central Florida, including rallies supporting Ukraine, demonstrations against animal cruelty, and efforts to oppose a local Jan. 6-related event. According to organizers, the group’s goal is to energize residents in opposition to authoritarianism ahead of upcoming elections.
The celebration will be hosted by Casey Marr and co-hosted by Rochelle Larson.