Defend Democracy ICT July 4th: Honor. Reflect. Defend.
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- July 4th: Honor. Reflect. Defend.
- Hosted by: Wichita Veterans Memorial Park Board
- Veterans Memorial Park – American Revolution Memorial
- 9:00 AM | Thursday, July 4, 2025
This Independence Day, instead of adding another protest in our normal gathering spot, we’re encouraging everyone in the Defend Democracy ICT community to show up in peaceful solidarity at the 2025 Independence Day Commemoration hosted by the Wichita Veterans Memorial Park Board.
- This is not a protest.
- There will be no bullhorns, no whistles, no chants, no anger.
- This is a time to honor those who served and reflect on the meaning of freedom, democracy, and the responsibility we carry to defend both.
The formal ceremony will include:
- Presentation of Colors by the McConnell AFB Honor Guard
- National Anthem & Pledge of Allegiance
- Invocation & Guest Speaker John Caviale (USMC Veteran)
- 3-volley rifle salute by the US Marine Corps League
- Taps to close
- Limited seating available — lawn chairs encouraged.
Signs are welcome — but please keep them respectful and reflective of the day. Some ideas:
- “Thank You, Veterans”
- "Thank You Active Duty Members"
- "Thank You For Your Service"
- “Freedom Requires Action”
- “Defend Democracy”
- “No More Wars”
Absolutely no signs with Trump’s name or profanity. This is not that kind of event. (Bring those Saturday, July 5 for our regular protest)
Let’s show up with respect, presence, and purpose — not to protest, but to quietly and powerfully recommit ourselves to the values of democracy and freedom alongside those who’ve fought to protect them.
More on the event from Veterans Memorial Park (https://wichitaveteransmemorialpark.com/.../2025.../)
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Anyone who wants to stand together in protest of the current administration and their actions AFTER the Commemoration Event on July 4 concludes is welcome to do so.
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We will still gather for our regular protest on Saturday, July 5 at 10AM at Douglas & Broadway.
And stay tuned for details on our July 17 “GOOD TROUBLE LIVES ON” National Day of Action, honoring the legacy of Congressman John Lewis
Starts on
Friday, July 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM CDT
Ends on
Friday, July 4, 2025 at 10:00 AM CDT
Veterans Memorial Park
339 Veterans Parkway
Wichita, KS, 67203
United States
Get Directions via Google Maps